Expert: Ed - 10/2/2005

Question
Dear Ed,
I have recently learnt somethings about IR atmospheric windows. I know that they are named  J, H, K, L, M, N, Q, and Z. Could you please tell me the reason behind the choise of these names?
Cheers
Leila

Answer
Leila,

I am researching your question, but so far I have not found an answer.  I don't know how much time you have, if this is for school.  So, if you want to quickly do some searching foryourself, try this website:

http://outreach.atnf.csiro.au/education/senior/astrophysics/wavebands.html

Near the bottom are about 7 or 8 links which could be useful to you.

If you can't find the answer, ask me again in a few days, and hopefully I will have figured this out by then.  I just don't want to keep you waiting, if the proverbial clock is ticking.

Keep Looking Up,
--Ed