Clear-Sky Probability for the August 21, 2017, Total Solar Eclipse Using the NREL National Solar Radiation Database

Aron Habte, Billy Roberts, Mark Kutchenreiter, Manajit Sengupta, Steve Wilcox, 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 of the August 21, 2017, total solar eclipse, the first continent-spanning eclipse in nearly 100 years in the United States. Using cloud and solar data from NREL's National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB), the analysis provides cloudless sky probabilities specific to the date and time of the eclipse. Although this paper is 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 totality, 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 pages13
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017

NREL Publication Number

  • NREL/TP-5D00-68885

Keywords

  • clear-sky probability
  • National Solar Radiation Database
  • NSRDB
  • total solar eclipse
  • United States

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