ABSTRACT
The measurement of ultraviolet radiation from the sun has attracted increased attention in recent years as concerns about the depletion of the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere have become the subject of vigorous public debate. Measurement of the UV portion of the solar spectrum has long been an important technique for analysis of the effective thickness of the ozone layer. UV measurements are also important for the evaluation of potential injury to exposed human skin as well as damage to certain plant and animal life. This paper will therefore review a few of the available UV measuring instruments and describe ongoing development work on an inexpensive UV device.
The application of a silicon photovoltaic cell to the measurement of relevant UV radiation using wavelength shifting by means of a fluorescent phosphor will be examined. The availability of simple and inexpensive instrumentation can permit the systematic collection of UV data at a wide range of locations and provide a valuable supplement to precise measurements undertaken at scientific institutes.
