Direct measurement of the multiple-scattering of solar radiation

Describes the results of a unique field experiment to evaluate the atmospheric scattering of solar radiation reflected off of a bright ground target using ground-based instruments. The effort is part of an experimental and theoretical program to fully evaluate the atmospheric point spread function. During the boreal summer of 1997, a unique spectral/spatial target was deployed in the middle of a large uniform grassy area near Brookings, South Dakota, airport. The target consisted of a large vinyl covered nylon tarp 30 by 60 metres in size. The vinyl was dyed to produce a surface that was very bright only in the blue region of the visible spectrum.