The discussion revolves around the detectable wavelengths of electromagnetic energy at the Earth's surface, particularly focusing on the infrared spectrum and how atmospheric conditions affect these wavelengths. Participants are exploring the extent to which different wavelengths, especially infrared, penetrate the atmosphere without significant absorption.
Participants express varying views on the absorption of infrared wavelengths by the atmosphere, with some agreeing on the role of atmospheric moisture while others question the extent of absorption. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific wavelengths that are most detectable.
Participants mention limitations in their understanding and the need for further exploration of the atmospheric absorption characteristics, particularly regarding infrared wavelengths.
A quick Google will give you info on this. About 50% of light that reaches the Earth's surface is infra red according to searches. I'm surprised by that, I would have thought longer wavelengths would be more readily absorbed by the atmosphere.CRuff said:
Nice diagramCRuff said:
A lot of IR is absorbed by atmospheric moisture. That is why IR telescopes are built on very high mountain tops to get above most of the atmospheric water vapour ... eg. the one on top of Mauna Keapinball1970 said:
My son visited the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope in Hawaii last year but did not get the data he needed as it was clouded over for 10 days pretty much. Go to Hawaii and get Manchester weather...davenn said:
Was probably during the hurricane season LOL ... the summit was closed when I was there last year as well because of Hurricane Lanepinball1970 said:
