On a warm day in January of last year, Martin Heinritzi peered from a window of his research plane, spotting Australia’s ...

Beginning in the 1960s, satellite instruments have measured Earth's reflected broadband shortwave radiation and emitted ...

Normally, clouds block some of this energy, causing it to be reflected back toward the surface. However, in some regions, ...

Clouds also affect UV levels, although most offer limited protection. A thick blanket of clouds can block as much as 69% of UV radiation, while partial cloud cover may only block 10% to 30% .

Dry air also means no clouds, and clouds act as insulators for the earth’s surface. During the day, clouds block solar radiation and keep high temperatures lower.

Cloud names incorporate roots like cirro, strato, cumulo, nimbo, or alto, based on their height and texture. Sunburns are possible on cloudy days as over 90% of UV radiation can penetrate cloud cover.

Clouds block sunlight, with only about one-third of the sun’s radiation making it through a fully overcast sky. Which side of the mountain also matters Where you are on the mountain also makes a ...