Pyranometer

A pyranometer is a type of actinometer used to measure broadband solar irradiance on a planar surface.

Related Topics:
Actinometer - Solar irradiance

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In other words: a pyranometer is a sensor that is designed to measure the solar radiation flux density (in watts per metre square) from a field of view of 180 degrees.

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Figure: Picture of a pyranometer, clearly showing the instrument main components: glass dome, metal body, black sensor, level and cable. Dimensions: diameter of the dome is 20 mm. Photo shows model LP02 Courtesy Hukseflux Thermal Sensors

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The name pyranometer stems from Greek, "pyr" meaning "fire" and "ano" meaning "sky".

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Pyranometers are frequently used in meteorology, climatology, solar energy studies and building physics. They can be seen in many meteorological stations - typically installed horizontally and next to solar panels - typically mounted with the sensor surface in the plane of the panel.

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Pyranometers are standardised according to the ISO 9060 standard, that is also adopted by WMO, the World Meteorological Organisation. This standard discriminates three classes. The best is (confusingly) called "secondary standard", the second best "first class" and the last one "second class".

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