Net radiometer RA01

solar

RA01 is a market-leading 2-component radiometer, primarily used in scientific-grade energy balance and surface flux networks. It offers 2 separate measurements of global solar and downward longwave radiation with a pyranometer and a pyrgeometer, respectively. Product features include a modular design, low weight, easy leveling, and low solar offsets in the longwave measurement. RA01’s unique capability to heat the pyrgeometer reduces measurement errors caused by dew deposition. When combined with estimates of solar albedo and local surface temperature, this instrument can also be used for estimation of net radiation. The advantages of this approach are cost reduction and independence from local surface properties. For accurate measurements RA01 measures the 2 incoming components of the surface radiation balance: global solar and downward longwave radiation. The solar radiation sensor is called a pyranometer, and the longwave sensor is referred to as a pyrgeometer. To calculate sky temperature, it is necessary to compensate for irradiated heat emitted by the pyrgeometer (Stefan-Boltzmann law). A Pt100 temperature sensor is included in RA01’s body for this purpose. Sunshine duration may also be estimated using the WMO-approved pyranometric method. Operation Using the RA01 radiometer is easy. It directly connects to the most commonly used data logging systems. The irradiance levels (in W/m2) are calculated by dividing the RA01 outputs, small voltages, by the sensitivities of the sensors. Longwave irradiance should be corrected using the instrument body temperature. The sensitivities of all sensors are provided on RA01’s product certificate.