Clear-Sky Probability for the 2023 Annular Solar Eclipse and the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse Using the NREL National Solar Radiation Database

Stephen Wilcox, Billy Roberts, Manajit Sengupta, Aron Habte, Jaemo Yang, Tom Stoffel

Research output: NRELTechnical Report

Abstract

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and collaborators have created a clear-sky probability analysis to help guide viewers to the 2023 annular solar eclipse and the 2024 total solar eclipse. Using cloud and solar data from the NREL National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB), the analysis provides cloudless-sky probabilities specific to the date, time, and location of each eclipse with a 4-km resolution. Though not intended to be an eclipse weather forecast, the detailed maps can help guide eclipse enthusiasts to likely optimal viewing locations. Additionally, high-resolution data are presented for the centerline of the path of each eclipse, representing the likelihood for cloudless skies and atmospheric clarity. The NSRDB provides industry, academia, and other stakeholders with high-resolution solar irradiance data to support feasibility analyses for photovoltaic and concentrating solar power generation projects.
Original languageAmerican English
Number of pages18
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023

NREL Publication Number

  • NREL/TP-5D00-86679

Keywords

  • clear-sky
  • NSRDB
  • solar eclipse
  • weather

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Clear-Sky Probability for the 2023 Annular Solar Eclipse and the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse Using the NREL National Solar Radiation Database'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this