Protocol eTraining Modules
Atmosphere
This module provides an overview of the protocols of the GLOBE Atmosphere Investigation. It also explains how to find the best locations for an atmosphere study site and instrument shelter. After completing it, you will be prepared to learn any atmosphere measurement protocols.
AEROSOLS
In this module you will learn how to measure the aerosol optical thickness (AOT) of the atmosphere (how much of the sun’s light is scattered or absorbed by particles suspended in the air) using a GLOBE Sun Photometer or a Calitoo.
AIR TEMPERATURE
In this module, learn how to measure air temperature using an alcohol-filled thermometer or digital thermometer, and where you should place your instrument shelter, if you are using one.
Supporting Material:
BAROMETRIC PRESSURE
In this module, you will learn how and where to collect barometric pressure using an aneroid barometer or altimeter.
CLOUDS
This modules provides steps in how to identify cloud type, sky color, cloud cover and cloud opacity. First, learn how to: select a site; select the time of day to collect data; and use appropriate strategies to observe sky conditions and other sky/cloud characteristics. Then, review how to analyze and identify various sky and cloud characterizations using the observation basics/cloud identification chart.
Supporting Material:
PRECIPITATION - Rainfall
This modules provides steps in selecting the appropriate place to install a rain gauge and how to measure daily rain water with accuracy. You will also be able to determine the pH of precipitation by testing the collected rain water using salt and pH paper.
Supporting Material:
PRECIPITATION - Snowfall
This modules provides steps to help you select the appropriate place to measure snow depth and shows how to measure snow depth. You will also be able to determine the snow liquid equivalent by collecting a sample of new snow or the snowpack and measuring the snow after it melts. Just as in the Rainfall protocol, you will also measure the pH by testing the collected snow liquid using salt and pH paper.
Supporting Material:
RELATIVE HUMIDITY
Learn how and where to measure relative humidity using a hygrometer or psychrometer.
SURFACE TEMPERATURE
In this module, learn how to collect surface temperature using an infrared thermometer.