Infrared reflectance of high altitude clouds.

The spectral reflectance characteristics of cirrostratus, cirrus clouds, and a jet contrail, in the 0.68-2.4-micro spectral interval, are of interest for remote sensing of cloud types from orbiting satellites. Measurements made with a down-looking spectrometer from a high altitude aircraft show differences between the signatures of naturally formed ice clouds, a fresh jet contrail, and a snow covered surface.

Infrared Aircraft Spectra Over Desert Terrain 8.5 micro to 16 micro.

Spectra in the 8.5-16-micro interval, taken at various altitudes over relatively uniform desert terrain, show attenuation of upwelling radiation by atmospheric gases and haze through the entire spectral interval. Equivalent blackbody temperatures, even in the clearest part of the window, show a drop that could introduce serious errors into remote sensing of surface temperatures. Surface emissivity characteristies are discernible at low altitudes but are somewhat masked by ozone at 10-km altitudes.