Reflectance characteristics of uniform Earth and cloud surfaces derived from NIMBUS‐7 ERB

摘要: Data from the scanning channels of NIMBUS 7 Earth Radiation Budget (ERB) experiment are combined with other data on earth surface conditions and cloudiness. Patterns bi-directional reflectance constructed this for uniform cloud surfaces. Examples shown that illustrate properties surfaces how these vary solar zenith angle (SZA). Dependence albedo SZA is also shown. Conclusions may be summarized as follows: (1) Water exhibit limb brightening at all SZAs; (2) land change darkening to increases; (3) exhibits higher backward reflection SZAs less than about 50°; (4) in study become more specular (5) snow most nearly isotropic surfaces; (6) shows very little variation even a slight decrease over limited range; (7) generally increases increasing (8) angular patterns high water ice clouds quite similar, but isotropic; (9) developed qualitative agreement those investigations.