The discussion centers around the average high temperatures in hot deserts during summer, with a specific reference to satellite recordings of surface temperatures, particularly in the Lut Desert. Participants explore the factors affecting temperature measurements and inquire about temperatures at different heights above the ground in various deserts.
Participants express varying views on the specifics of temperature measurements and the factors influencing them. There is no consensus on the average temperatures or the reliability of satellite data, indicating multiple competing views remain.
Participants mention the influence of emissivity and sunlight angle on temperature readings, but do not resolve how these factors specifically apply to the measurements in question. There are also references to the limitations of satellite measurements, but these are not fully explored.
This discussion may be of interest to those studying climatology, remote sensing, or desert ecology, as well as individuals curious about temperature measurement techniques in extreme environments.
mgb_phys said:The temperature of a surface in the sun depends on the emissivity (how black) of the surface and the angle to the sun - that's why temperatures are normally quoted 'in the shade'.
The air temperature near the surface is going to be close to the surface temperature.
The extreme maximum temperature for Hot Desert ranges from 43.5 to 49° C.
eha said:I think satellites are measuring the temperature of surfaces of the other deserts regularly, but i can't get to those figures at the moment. Thanks for your interest.