Cloud optical properties at Bergen (Norway) based on the analysis of long-term solar irradiance records

E. Leontieva, K. Stamnes, J. A. Olseth

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

20 Scopus citations

Abstract

Ground-based measurements of incoming solar irradiance and cloud observations during a 26 year period (1965-1990) at Bergen, Norway were used in conjunction with a comprehensive radiation model to infer the cloud optical depth τ under completely overcast conditions. Month-to-month and year-to-year (April through October) statistics of the cloud optical depth and observed cloud forms are presented. Some climate-related features, specifically, diurnal and seasonal variabilities in τ are examined. The effects of local cloudiness are pointed out and discussed. There appears to be a slight trend towards increasing cloud optical depth at noon during the warm period of the year. The possible uncertainties due to unknown size of cloud droplets are analyzed by model simulations. Possible directions for future research are suggested provided more meteorological and/or satellite information is available.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)73-82
Number of pages10
JournalTheoretical and Applied Climatology
Volume50
Issue number1-2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1994

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Cloud optical properties at Bergen (Norway) based on the analysis of long-term solar irradiance records'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this