The image above on the left is simulated from the LAPS cloud/aerosol analysis including satellite, camera, and other data, while the image on the right is taken at the same time by an EKO Instruments independent all-sky camera located at the CU Skywatch Observatory (ATOC). In each fisheye lens view the zenith is in the center and north is up. The color balance of the simulated image is set to reproduce the "actual" colors/radiances when the display white point is set to closely match the sun. Thus to see a true apples to apples comparison (if for example you take your computer outside or right by a window), please set your display to a color temperature of 5780K (the sun's white color above the atmosphere). Some images are shown a bit dark to avoid saturating and losing details on the bright end. This can be compensated for by turning up your monitor brightness, thus showing a broader dynamic range.
SE represents solar elevation angle in the legend and COD represents zenithal cloud optical depth from the cloud analysis. The simulated solar irradiance (GHI) is in the lower left of the simulated image in W/m^2. The first number is from the cloud analysis where GHI is calculated as a 2D field, while the second number is based on an angular integration of the simulated sky image.
Latest all-sky comparison difference image | mask
Latest comparison animations (site is ATOC): Polar | Cylindrical
In these 360 degree panoramic (all-sky) views, a simulated cloud/aerosol analysis (using satellite though no camera) image is shown (top) compared with a remapped independent camera image (second) from an all-sky camera located at CU/ATOC. South is at the center of each image and north is at the edges. The listed solar irradiance is calculated from the same radiance information used to construct the image.
Archive Directories (site is ATOC): Polar Comparison | Polar Blinking | Cylindrical Comparison | Diff Mask | Cam Modified Cyl
Other Related Endeavors from around the web
More visualizations are on my main home page | Contact: Steve Albers (Steven.Albers@colostate.edu)