|
 Ozone
Observation
Most atmospheric ozone is found in the stratosphere. As its
distribution is closely related to patterns of atmospheric circulation,
ozone is a crucial factor in meteorological analysis of the stratosphere.
On the other hand, the presence of ozone in the stratosphere
is beneficial because of its strong absorption of solar ultraviolet radiation.
It removes most short-wave ultraviolet radiation, which is potentially
damaging to the cells of living organisms on the planet. However, industrially
manufactured gases such as CFCs cause the depletion of ozone in the stratosphere.
It has been warned that this will seriously affect organisms and ecosystems.
The Ozone and Radiation Division is responsible for observing
the total amount of ozone in the atmosphere and its vertical distribution
using Dobson ozone spectrophotometer measurements. In addition, the division
carries out analysis of the observation results as well as improvement
and development of the related equipment.
Automated measuring system for Dobson ozone
spectrophotometer.
Umkehr measurement.
Observation of Ultraviolet Radiation
Of all solar radiation that reaches the earth, the harmful
ultraviolet variety accounts for less than 0.1 % in terms of energy. Yet
any change in this amount can produce adverse effects on ecosystems and
cause global warming and related issues. Observation and assessment of
the actual conditions of ultraviolet radiation are therefore tasks of international
concern.
To accurately ascertain the amount of harmful ultraviolet
radiation that reaches the ground, this division carries out observation
of global ultraviolet spectral irradiance using Brewer spectrophotometer
measurements as well as monitoring global UV-B irradiance with ultraviolet
pyranometers. It also conducts research into related matters and technological
development.
Observation
of Radiation
The atmosphere and surface of the earth are warmed by incoming
solar radiation and cooled by the movement of outgoing terrestrial (infrared)
radiation into space. Observing the quantities of these types of radiation
is climatologically very important.
To investigate the mechanism of radiation in detail, this
division carries out observation and study of the following radiation components:
Global solar radiation
Direct solar radiation
Diffuse solar radiation
Reflected solar radiation
Downward long-wave radiation
Upward long-wave radiation
 |
