Basic Principles of Radiation
Introduction:
This lesson is an abbreviated review of the scientific basis for using visible and infrared satellite imagery. The concepts and capabilities presented are common to most geostationary (GEO) and low-Earth orbiting (LEO) meteorological satellites. Basic remote sensing and radiative theory are reviewed using conceptual models to help organize scientific concepts. Some imagery is also included to illustrate concepts and relate them to sensor observations.This lesson is a part of the NWS Satellite Foundational GOES-R Course.More in-depth information on radiation and radiative transfer can be found in the COMET lesson, Basics of Visible and Infrared Remote Sensing.
Objectives:
- Describe the concept of radiation and the relationship between radiance and reflected solar and earth-emitted energy
- Describe reflected solar and terrestrial radiation as they relate to satellite observations
- Understand how solar and terrestrial radiation is selectively absorbed, reflected, and scattered by atmospheric constituents
- Understand radiative transfer processes
- Understand selective absorption through the atmosphere
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