Atmospheric Sounding Data and Refraction Coefficient
Select a station, data format, and date to download data and automatically generate the refraction coefficient `k` profile.
FAQ - What is this about? 🔭 (click to expand)
What is this page for?
This page fetches atmospheric sounding data from meteorological balloons and uses it to calculate the local atmospheric refraction coefficient `k`. This coefficient describes how light rays (e.g., those reaching a camera, telescope, or binoculars) bend in the atmosphere.
What is the refraction coefficient `k`?
The atmospheric refraction coefficient `k` determines the degree of curvature of light rays' path. In a standard atmosphere, `k` is approximately 0.14.
Why does this coefficient change and why does it matter?
The value of `k` depends on atmospheric conditions – mainly on the vertical changes in temperature and pressure. When these conditions deviate from the standard (e.g., during a strong temperature inversion), the `k` coefficient can increase significantly, leading to unusual optical phenomena that allow for observing and photographing objects located far beyond the geometric horizon.
How to interpret the chart for long-distance photography?
The chart shows how the value of `k` changes with altitude. Look for layers where the `k` value is as high as possible. The presence of such layers (often associated with temperature inversions) indicates excellent conditions for "hunting" distant objects that are normally invisible. This is a key tool for any long-distance observation and photography enthusiast.