How is surface temperature data obtained?
What ?? thermometer !
nope
Surface temperature data is obtained through a combination of ground-based measurements, satellite observations, and weather stations.
1. Ground-based measurements: Weather stations situated on the ground collect data using instruments called thermometers. These thermometers are often housed in a white-louvered box called a Stevenson screen to protect them from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. The instruments record the temperature at regular intervals, usually every hour. In some cases, automated weather stations transmit the data in real-time to a central database.
2. Satellite observations: Satellites equipped with remote sensing instruments are used to measure the temperature of the Earth's surface from space. These instruments detect the thermal radiation emitted by the surface and convert it into temperature measurements using mathematical algorithms. Satellites can gather data over large areas, providing a global perspective on surface temperatures.
3. Weather stations: In addition to ground-based measurements, many weather stations are equipped with sensors that continuously monitor surface temperature. These sensors are often located at a height of about 1.5 to 2 meters above the ground to minimize the influence of local factors such as vegetation or buildings. The data from these weather stations is collected and analyzed to provide a detailed picture of surface temperature patterns.
It's worth noting that surface temperature observations are made at various locations across the globe and are combined together to create a comprehensive representation of the Earth's surface temperature. This data is then used for various purposes, including climate studies, weather forecasting, and assessing long-term temperature trends.