SOLAR RADIATION OBSERVATIONS AT THE GROUND-BASED RADIATION MONITORING COMPLEX IN REP. of MOLDOVA

Abstract

Description of the ground-based solar radiation monitoring complex is presented. Complex comprises a set of the state-of-the-art solar radiation sensors, automatic sun-tracking unit and electronics, sunphotometer, portable hand-held ozonometer, and automatic weather station. Total ozone content in column of atmosphere, solar broadband irradiances from UV-B to the far IR, spectral aerosol optical thickness (AOT), retrieved column integrated aerosol optical and microphysical characteristics, and main surface meteorological elements are measured at this ground station. AOT observations are fulfilled within the frame of the global Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) program under supervision of the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Radiometric and ozone data are submitted to the World Radiation Data Centre (WRDC) and World Ozone and Ultraviolet Radiation Data Centre (WOUDC). Some preliminary results of AOT, shortwave solar radiation, total ozone content, and main meteorological elements acquired at the ground based solar radiation monitoring station are presented.