Studying the Atmosphere over Africa using Astronomical Data: I - Extinction Measurements
Abstract
The article highlights the potential uses of astronomical extinction measurements in the study of the transport and concentration of aerosols, which in turn have an effect on the global radiation balance, as well as cloud formation. Some examples of cases where astronomical extinction measurements have facilitated atmospheric research in Africa are presented, these being (a) the properties of Saharan dust and its transportation to the Canary Islands; (b) the Pinatubo ash-cloud and its evolution; (c) the brown haze in Cape Town; and (d) the passage of pyrogenic aerosol clouds over Sutherland.
- Publication:
-
African Skies
- Pub Date:
- December 2000
- Bibcode:
- 2000AfrSk...5...10W