The Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN) is a new radiometric network initiated by the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) to support climate research. The network aims to provide validation material for satellite radiometry and climate models, detect long-term variations in irradiances at the Earth's surface, and cover major climate zones with high accuracy. The network consists of 15 operational stations covering 80°N to 90°S, with plans to add seven more. The data are stored in a centralized archive at the WCRP's World Radiation Monitoring Center (WRMC) in Zurich, Switzerland, and are available to scientific communities through various means. The article discusses the scientific, organizational, and technical aspects of the network, including the instruments and methods used for observations, data management, and quality control. It also outlines the future tasks and application possibilities of the BSRN.The Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN) is a new radiometric network initiated by the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) to support climate research. The network aims to provide validation material for satellite radiometry and climate models, detect long-term variations in irradiances at the Earth's surface, and cover major climate zones with high accuracy. The network consists of 15 operational stations covering 80°N to 90°S, with plans to add seven more. The data are stored in a centralized archive at the WCRP's World Radiation Monitoring Center (WRMC) in Zurich, Switzerland, and are available to scientific communities through various means. The article discusses the scientific, organizational, and technical aspects of the network, including the instruments and methods used for observations, data management, and quality control. It also outlines the future tasks and application possibilities of the BSRN.