ASC300 All-Sky Imager
The ASC300 All-Sky Imager is part of Yunnengtian's ASC all-sky cloud observation instrument family. Depending on the application, this type of instrument is also described as an automatic cloud cover observation instrument or all-sky camera. The ASC300 combines visible and infrared observation to measure cloud cover, cloud type, cloud height, cloud temperature and cloud advection.
Features
- Combines visible and infrared observation for all-weather, all-time, all-sky cloud cover and cloud height observation.
- Uses infrared remote sensing to reduce atmospheric infrared background radiation and measure cloud-base height distribution.
- Uses image restoration to reduce the effect of solar glare and overexposure on cloud cover observation.
- Includes an embedded shutter-type sun shield and a positive-pressure self-cleaning device.
Applications
- Automated cloud cover and cloud height observation for meteorological and climate operations
- Solar production forecasting and photovoltaic performance assessment
- Meteorological science, remote sensing and solar resource research
- Cloud observation for aviation and marine meteorology
Technical Parameters
| Observation indicators | Cloud cover and cloud height; low cloud cover, cloud type and cloud temperature are non-standard options |
|---|---|
| Infrared wavelength | 8–14 μm |
| Field of view | Visible 180°, infrared 160° |
| Cloud cover | 1% resolution, error less than ±15% |
| Cloud height | Error less than ±15% at ≥1 km or ±200 m below 1 km; range 200–7500 m |
| Image resolution | Visible 3000 × 3000, infrared 640 × 512 |
| Sampling interval | Adjustable from 3 to 10 minutes |
| Data storage | More than 30 days |
| Software access | TCP/IP and FTP; browser or app operation |
| Protection rating | IP65 |
| Operating temperature | -45°C to 55°C |
| Communication | Ethernet and serial port |
| Dimensions and weight | 60 × 22 × 37 cm, 30 kg |
| Power supply | AC220V / 50Hz |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an all-sky imager?
An all-sky imager observes all-sky imagery and cloud parameters. The ASC300 combines visible and infrared observation for automated cloud cover and cloud height monitoring.
Which parameters can the ASC300 observe?
The ASC300 observes cloud cover and cloud height. Low cloud cover, cloud type and cloud temperature are non-standard options; the published product description also identifies cloud advection among its cloud parameter capabilities.
What is the ASC300 cloud-height range?
The stated cloud-height range is 200–7500 m. Error is less than ±15% at or above 1 km and ±200 m below 1 km.
How can ASC300 data be accessed?
The ASC300 supports TCP/IP, FTP, Ethernet and serial communication, with browser or app operation.