On spectral extinction of solar radiation within a tropical atmospheric boundary layer

Helicopter measurements of solar irradiance and meteorological data within the atmospheric boundary-layer were made in Lagos during February 1979. Filter samples of aerosols were collected both during flight in February 1979 and at ground level in December 1978. Profile data on spectral aerosol optical depth were obtained and, from these, the aerosol extinction coefficient at two wavelengths (0.5 and 0.88 m) were calculated. Precipitable water was low and was contained mainly within the 750 m layer above ground, suggesting the establishment of a deep unstable boundary layer. Calculated channel energy depletions by aerosols show that, within the first 750 m of the surface, the 0·88 m might be more efficient at attenuating solar energy than 0·5 m. The lagoon (maritime) aerosol sample indicated a more monodisperse size-distribution than the dusty harmattan aerosol sample.