The Simple Model of the Atmospheric Radiative Transfer of Sunshine, or SMARTS, predicts clear-sky spectral irradiances. Earth's atmosphere is a continuously changing filter that modifies the sunlight that travels through it. SMARTS computes how changes in the atmosphere affect the distribution of solar power or photon energy for each wavelength of light.
SMARTS is a versatile model that is used by researchers in a number of fields. For example, solar energy researchers use SMARTS to test the performance of spectroradiometers, develop reference spectra, establish uniform testing conditions for materials research, optimize daylighting techniques, and verify broadband radiation models. Researchers also use SMARTS in the fields of architecture, atmospheric science, photobiology, and health physics.
SMARTS is a complex model that requires significant experience and knowledge of basic physics and meteorology, climatology, or atmospheric sciences. It is therefore used primarily by researchers and engineers.
Learn more about the SMARTS model or register to download it.
Alert: On Oct. 18, 2007, a problem was found in the Windows version of the SMARTS 2.9.5 granular snow albedo file. To download a repaired file, click the Download link to the left, log in, and visit the SMARTS Bugs and Fixes page.
SMARTS was developed by Dr. Christian Gueymard. NREL's Electric Systems Center Resource Integration Section provided subcontract support for modifications and application assistance.
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