The effect of cloud sides on reflected solar radiation as deduced from satellite observations.

Abstract

Reports the observation of a feature that is characteristic of the reflection of solar radiation from absorbing finite clouds. Observes this feature in solar radiation at 3.7 micrometers reflected by low-level, single-layered systems of water clouds over the Pacific Ocean. Interpreting the effect as due to geometrical factors, notes that absorption causes the reflected radiances to be highly anisotropic, so that they are generally greater from the sun-facing cloud sides than from the cloud tops. -from Authors