C-185
Cessna C-185

Infrared Thermometers (IRTs) are ground-based pyrometers that measure the brightness temperature of a scene within their field of view. They determine brightness temperature by detecting electromagnetic radiation emitted by Earth’s surface. These measurements are used to find either the surface skin temperature or the sea surface temperature, depending on whether the platform is on land or water. IRTs typically operate within the 8- to 14-μm wavelength range.

Generic-Radiometers refer to non-specific radiometers on a platform. These are typically passive microwave radiometers that measure brightness temperature. Radiometers can be used to retrieve temperature and water vapor profiles, soil moisture content, ocean salinity, precipitation and cloud properties, and vegetation.