What device measures solar radiation?

Solar radiation is the energy emitted by the sun, which includes electromagnetic radiation of various wavelengths such as visible, ultraviolet and infrared light. Solar radiation is one of the sources of energy necessary for the survival of all living things on Earth and is the basis for solar energy use.

Solar radiation travels through space to the Earth's atmosphere and produces irradiation on the ground. Of this, visible light is perceived by the human eye, while infrared and ultraviolet light have other specific properties. On Earth, the intensity of solar radiation is influenced by the atmosphere, clouds and the surface, which in turn have an impact on the utilisation of solar energy.

Solar radiation has a significant impact on the climate, vegetation growth, and water cycle on Earth. Therefore, accurate measurement and monitoring of solar radiation is not only important for solar energy utilisation, but also helps us to better understand and utilise the effects of solar radiation on the Earth's environment.

There are several devices that can measure solar radiation, the most common of which include:

1. Solar Radiometer: A solar radiometer is an instrument specifically designed to measure the intensity of solar radiation. It usually uses technical principles such as thermocouples or thermopiles to convert solar radiation energy into electrical signals and provide the corresponding measurement results.

2. Solar Radiation Sensor: A solar radiation sensor is a specific type of sensor designed to measure the intensity of solar radiation. It usually uses technical principles similar to those of a solar radiometer, such as a thermocouple or thermopile, to measure solar radiation and output a corresponding signal.

3. Photometer (Pyranometer): A photometer is also an instrument used to measure solar radiation. It uses a special sensor, called a focal plane radiometer (pyranometer), to determine the intensity of solar radiation by measuring the intensity of light that strikes the sensor from solar radiation.

4. Spectroradiometer: A spectroradiometer is an instrument capable of measuring the wavelength distribution of solar radiation. It is capable of providing data on the intensity of solar radiation in different wavelength ranges, from ultraviolet to infrared.

These devices can be selected for use according to specific needs and applications. Whether they are used in areas such as solar system performance monitoring, meteorological studies or environmental monitoring, choosing the right measurement device is key to ensuring accurate solar radiation measurements.

Pyranometer Solar Radiation Sensors data sheet

NBL-W-HPRS-Solar-Radiation-Sensor-Instruction-Manual-V3.0.pdf

NBL-W-SRS-Solar-radiation-sensor-instruction-manual-V4.0.pdf