Low-cost Prototype Pyrgeometer for Atmospheric Radiation Measurements

Objective: To design and build an instrument capable of measuring long-wave infrared radiation with elements of the national market that offers an excellent performance in measuring energy in this spectral band. Methodology: The best design was determined based on other existing instruments, innovating its development by using materials that are easily accessible in the country, and its operation was verified by characterizing an incandescent light bulb used as an infrared radiation pattern. Then, the radiation measured by the instrument was compared to that emitted by the source by means of an experimental setup that involved measuring the temperature at several distances. Results: A functional prototype was obtained, and its operation could be verified through a series of irradiance measurements according to the Stefan-Boltzmann law, through a calibration process with a known radiation source. Conclusions: A radiometric instrument for the thermal infrared band was designed and built. Raw materials and electronic components were used which were available in the local market, thus noticeably reducing the equipment’s production costs. Funding: This research was funded by the authors.