Importance of aerosols in satellite-derived estimates of surface shortwave irradiance over China

Tadahiro Hayasaka, Kazuaki Kawamoto, Guangyu Shi, Atsumu Ohmura

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Pyranometer measurements and two satellite-derived data sets were used to evaluate surface downward shortwave irradiance over China. Compared to pyranometer measurements, the satellite-derived data overestimated surface shortwave irradiance, particularly over large cities. These positive biases can be attributed to aerosols with absorptive properties; aerosols especially in the sub-cloud layer impact surface shortwave irradiance determinations under cloudy conditions. Satellite-derived radiation data sets are useful. However, aerosols strongly affect surface shortwave irradiance, creating discrepancies between satellite-derived data and pyranometer measurements.

Original languageEnglish
Article numberL06802
JournalGeophysical Research Letters
Volume33
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2006 Mar 28
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geophysics
  • Earth and Planetary Sciences(all)

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