Lab 1: Solar spectroscopy

Solar spectroscopy ..By observing the incoming light from the Sun, we can measure the Solar surface temperature, the ozone layer around the Earth, study the elemental abundances of the solar atmosphere as well as the Earths atmosphere.¶

By studying the solar spectrum we observe absorption dips due to various molecules and atoms in both the Solar atmosphere and in the Earth´s atmosphere. The curve form of the spectrum also gives information about the surface temperature of the Sun.¶

Task 1 Investigate the temperature of the solar surface by using Planck´s and Wien´s laws. Theory and formulae can be found in the lab manual. Wien's law gives a simple formula for calculating the temperature of a "Black body" radiator such as the Sun. Just measure the wavelength of the peak of the Black body curve!¶

In the figure above we see the Planck curve for two temperatures and how the wavelength for the intensity peak moves.¶

Task 2 Find the atoms of the solar atmosphere, the so called Fraunhofer lines. A general description about how solar scientists record solar spectra, solar temperatures and absorption of species in the Earth`s atmosphere can be found in solar recordings. Below are shown two recordings where absorption of radiation can be found. ¶

By using a spectrometer with a CCD camera (See below) directed towards the Sun, either directly at Noon or at different times of the day we can measure the solar spectrum close to ground, why absorption of atmospheric molecules and atoms occur.¶

[IMAGE]¶