Abstract

The basic equation for the solar almucantar (same zenith angle as the sun) sky radiance is developed. Methods are reviewed for using the solar almucantar sky radiance to obtain space-to-sensor radiance transmittance and to test the optical stability of the atmosphere. Almucantar sky radiances on optically stable days can also be used to test for spurious sun reflectance in a sky radiance photometer. Examples of such a use are given. A new method is also developed for obtaining the aerosol optical thickness from solar almucantar radiances.

© 1985 Optical Society of America

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