Solar Radiation
Leader: Axel Kreuter
Our research focuses on solar radiation and its links to atmospheric composition, air quality, and human health. A central theme of the group is ground-based remote sensing of trace gases and aerosols. We operate a range of solar radiation instruments, including sun photometers for aerosol research as part of the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET), as well as prototype spectrometers spanning the UV-VIS to shortwave infrared.
The group is funded through national projects, including FWF and FFG, and plays a leading role in Austria’s participation in the pan-European ACTRIS research infrastructure (Aerosol, Clouds and Trace Gases Research Infrastructure). In particular, our laboratory operates the ACTRIS UV-VIS trace gas remote sensing unit CREGARS UVVIS-AT. This involvement in ACTRIS is a key pillar of our future research and of our integration within the wider atmospheric science community.
In addition, the group operates the Austrian UV measurement network under contract with the Austrian federal ministry responsible for climate and environment.
M. Blumthaler: UV Monitoring for Public Health. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 15, 1723 (2018), doi: 10.3390/ijerph15081723
Schmalwieser A. W., KLotz B. et al., UV Index monitoring in Europe, Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences 16, 1349-1370, DOI:10.1039/c7pp00178a