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Temperature stability of the sky quality meter.
Sabrina Schnitt1, Thomas Ruhtz, Jürgen Fischer
1Institute for Space Sciences, Freie Universität Berlin, Carl-Heinrich-Becker-Weg 6-10, Berlin 12165, Germany. christopher.kyba@wew.fu-berlin.de.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 14, 2013
Summary
The Sky Quality Meter (SQM) shows stable radiance measurements despite rapid temperature changes. Its temperature compensation is adequate for outdoor use, with readings within 7% across tested conditions.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Instrument Science
Background:
- Accurate sky brightness measurements are crucial for astronomical observations.
- Environmental factors like temperature can affect instrument performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the temperature stability of radiance measurements from the Sky Quality Meter (SQM).
- To determine if the SQM's temperature compensation is sufficient for outdoor applications.
Main Methods:
- Exposed the SQM to a stable light field under controlled laboratory conditions.
- Simulated rapid temperature fluctuations ranging from -15 °C to 35 °C.
- Monitored radiance measurements during temperature changes of -33 °C/h and +70 °C/h.
Main Results:
- Reported radiance showed a negative correlation with temperature.
- Measurements remained within 7% of initial values across the tested temperature range and rates of change.
- This stability is better than the manufacturer's quoted 10% systematic uncertainty.
Conclusions:
- The Sky Quality Meter demonstrates adequate temperature compensation for reliable outdoor operation.
- SQM radiance measurements are stable under dynamic environmental conditions relevant to astronomical fieldwork.
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