Validation of a satellite-based solar UV-A radiation dosimeter for mobile healthcare applications. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Morelli, M.; Michelozzi, B.; Simeone, E.; Khazova, M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of atmospheric and solar-terrestrial physics. Volume 215(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: Satellite Earth Observation -- Near real-time solar UV-A sensor-less dosimeter -- Validation by ground spectral radiation measurements -- Digital healthcare apps for balancing risks and benefits of sun exposure; Geophysics -- Periodicals; Atmospheric physics -- Periodicals; Géophysique -- Périodiques; Météorologie physique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 551.51
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jastp.2020.105529
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-6826

Abstract

Abstract: Solar UV-A radiation causes photocarcinogenesis and skin photoageing, but it could also benefit cardiovascular health and protection from autoimmunity. In this study, a method for the near real-time monitoring of UV-A solar radiation dose based on Earth Observation satellites imagery is proposed. The calculated satellite-derived radiant dose has been compared to ground measurements provided by Public Health England solar monitoring network at eight locations in the UK and Republic of Ireland in April–October 2015. The statistical analysis showed a good correlation between satellite-derived exposure doses and direct ground measurements under all weather conditions, significantly improved for clear skies. The proposed method may be considered for the integration into digital mobile apps for healthcare, assisting users to balance risks and benefits of sun exposure in an accessible way. Highlights: An innovative method based on EO satellites has been developed for the near real-time monitoring of UV-A solar radiation. The method is a further expansion of the HappySun® technology (www.happysun.co.uk ). It has been validated by comparing satellite-derived UV-A radiant dose to direct ground measurements provided by PHE. The statistical analysis showed a good correlation under any weather condition, significantly improved for clear skies. It could be integrated in digital mobile apps for healthcare, assisting users to balance risks and benefits of sun exposure.