The mid-resolution microwave scanning radiometer is a conical scanning total power radiometer with a fixed visual angle and double-reference temperature.

仪器实施的方案为固定视角圆锥扫描双参考温度外部两点式周期定标全功率型。

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The pictures come from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) satellite, and have been referred to as "The Black Marble" in reference to the famous "Blue Marble" daylight pictures.

ENGADGET: Alt-week 12.08.12: The oldest known dinosaur, lighting up a space station and the black marble