Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN/WCRP): New Precision Radiometry for Climate Research

Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN/WCRP): New Precision Radiometry for Climate Research

October 1998 | Atsumu Ohmura, Ellsworth G. Dutton, Bruce Forgan, Claus Fröhlich, Hans Gilgen, Herman Hegner, Alain Heimo, Gert König-Langlo, Bruce McArthur, Guido Müller, Rolf Philipona, Rachel Pinker, Charlie H. Whitlock, Klaus Dehne, and Martin Wild
The Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN), established by the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP), is a global radiometric network designed to provide high-accuracy surface irradiance data for climate research. The BSRN aims to validate satellite-based estimates of surface radiation and climate models, monitor long-term changes in surface irradiances, and ensure standardized, high-precision measurements. The network consists of 15 operational stations, with seven more in preparation, covering a wide range of climatic zones from 80°N to 90°S. Data are collected at 1 Hz and stored in a centralized archive at the WCRP's World Radiation Monitoring Center (WRMC) in Zurich, Switzerland. The data are quality-controlled at both the station and WRMC levels, with 10-year storage of original 1-min statistics and hourly mean values transferred to the World Radiation Data Center in Russia. The BSRN is organized into three components: the BSRN sites, the archive at WRMC, and the science panel. Each site is staffed with a scientist and technician, and the sites are selected to ensure diverse climatic and atmospheric conditions. The BSRN requires high accuracy, with measurements of direct solar irradiance, diffuse sky irradiance, and longwave downward irradiance, among others. The network uses advanced instruments, including cavity radiometers, thermopile pyrheliometers, and pyranometers, to ensure precision. Data are collected at 1 Hz and stored with 1-min statistics, including quality flags. The BSRN's technical specifications include a 1 Hz sampling rate and 1-min archival intervals, with data quality controlled through rigorous procedures. The network also includes expanded measurements for remote sensing and data interpretation, as well as other measurements for atmospheric radiation research. The BSRN's data archive stores all measurements, with quality flags and station history data, enabling efficient retrieval for research purposes. The BSRN's data are used to improve climate models, validate satellite data, and monitor climate change. The network continues to expand, with future goals focused on improving accuracy, expanding coverage, and enhancing data quality.The Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN), established by the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP), is a global radiometric network designed to provide high-accuracy surface irradiance data for climate research. The BSRN aims to validate satellite-based estimates of surface radiation and climate models, monitor long-term changes in surface irradiances, and ensure standardized, high-precision measurements. The network consists of 15 operational stations, with seven more in preparation, covering a wide range of climatic zones from 80°N to 90°S. Data are collected at 1 Hz and stored in a centralized archive at the WCRP's World Radiation Monitoring Center (WRMC) in Zurich, Switzerland. The data are quality-controlled at both the station and WRMC levels, with 10-year storage of original 1-min statistics and hourly mean values transferred to the World Radiation Data Center in Russia. The BSRN is organized into three components: the BSRN sites, the archive at WRMC, and the science panel. Each site is staffed with a scientist and technician, and the sites are selected to ensure diverse climatic and atmospheric conditions. The BSRN requires high accuracy, with measurements of direct solar irradiance, diffuse sky irradiance, and longwave downward irradiance, among others. The network uses advanced instruments, including cavity radiometers, thermopile pyrheliometers, and pyranometers, to ensure precision. Data are collected at 1 Hz and stored with 1-min statistics, including quality flags. The BSRN's technical specifications include a 1 Hz sampling rate and 1-min archival intervals, with data quality controlled through rigorous procedures. The network also includes expanded measurements for remote sensing and data interpretation, as well as other measurements for atmospheric radiation research. The BSRN's data archive stores all measurements, with quality flags and station history data, enabling efficient retrieval for research purposes. The BSRN's data are used to improve climate models, validate satellite data, and monitor climate change. The network continues to expand, with future goals focused on improving accuracy, expanding coverage, and enhancing data quality.
Reach us at info@study.space