atmospheric window

noun

Astronomy.

1. any of the wavelengths at which electromagnetic radiation from space can penetrate the earth's atmosphere.

atmospheric window

noun

1. wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be transmitted through the earth's atmosphere. Atmospheric windows occur in the visible, infrared, and radio regions of the spectrum

Word History and Origins

Origin of atmospheric window¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

A micrometer-thick silicon polymer was added to enhance the structure's cooling power by reflecting thermal radiation through the atmospheric window and into outer space.

Read more on Science Daily

The idea is to test the effects on the atmospheric window of various pollutants, and also of water vapour, by releasing them into the building.

Read more on Economist