SOLAR ECLIPSE EFFECT ON SHELTER AIR-TEMPERATURE

Decreases in shelter temperature during eclipse events were quantified on the basis of observations, numerical model simulations, and comple mentary conceptual evaluations. Observations for the annular eclipse o n 10 May 1994 over the United States are presented, and these provide insights into the temporal and spatial changes in the shelter temperat ure. The observations indicated near-surface temperature drops of as m uch as 6 degrees C. Numerical model simulations for this eclipse event , which provide a complementary evaluation of the spatial and temporal patterns of the temperature drops, predict similar decreases. Interre lationships between the temperature drop, degree of solar irradiance r eduction, and timing of the peak eclipse are also evaluated for late s pring, summer, and winter sun conditions. These simulations suggest th at for total eclipses the drops in shelter temperature in midlatitudes can be as high as 7 degrees C for a spring morning eclipse.