Measurements of enhanced springtime ultraviolet radiation at Palmer Station, Antarctica

Measurements of ultraviolet solar spectra from Palmer Station, Antarctica have defined the surface radiation environment of the region during the Austral spring of 1988. At wavelengths where absorption by ozone is negligible, 335–345 nm, the noontime irradiances show the expected gradual increase from the first day of measurements, 19 September, through 21 December. Large variations related to cloudiness are imposed on this background. At wavelengths less than 310 nm the influence of the 1988 ozone “hole” is apparent. The noontime irradiance observed in the wavelength band 295–305 nm on 19 October, two months prior to summer solstice, exceeded any value measured through 21 December.