Surface Radiation Scanner System
Surface Radiation Scanner System, Sensors
The radiation balance is the most important component of the energy budget of permafrost soils. The balance of incoming and outgoing radiation depends upon soil surface characteristics such as albedo, emissivity and surface temperature. These surface features vary significantly within several meters in the tundra of the Lena River Delta, which consists mainly of polygonal structures featuring wet centres and dry rims.
Surface Radiation Scanner System, Tower
For detecting the differences in the outgoing radiation, a 10m long scanner system was installed on Samoylov Island in July/August 2007. Along the scanner track, reflected short and emitted long wave radiation are measured by a pyranometer and an infrared sensor, respectively. Incoming and the mean outgoing radiation are measured using a standard four component radiometer. Pairs of soil temperature sensors and moisture probes were installed along the scanner track for measuring the effect of the varying surface characteristics on ground heat fluxes.
Due to very sensitive mechanics and high power consumption, the scanner system needs permanent supervision and thus operates only during expedition period. Soil temperature and soil moisture content measurements are collected throughout the year.
Surface Radiation Scanner System, Track