02. Are we able to measure ultraviolet rays in space? (A K2S Question)

From The Space Library

Radiation detectors on Earth used for monitoring solar UVR often match the frequency spectrum for ultraviolet-induced skin redness or erythema, recorded in units of minimal erythema dose (MED). One MED is equivalent to the solar exposure that produces a just-perceptible reddening of white skin 24 hours after exposure. Earth-based monitors measure what reaches the surface, and are influenced by latitude, cloud cover, particles in the air and the altitude at the surface. These monitors are used to warn people of their risk for sunburn. Space monitoring of UV is performed on special satellites. The total ozone mapping spectrometer (TOMS), along with the ozone monitoring instrument (OMI) are on board the Aura spacecraft, which is the only NASA spacecraft on orbit specializing in ozone measurement. These instruments use UV readings to monitor ozone.

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Answer provided by Dr. Jonathan B. Clark

Question and Answer extracted from the book Kids to Space - by Lonnie Schorer

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