Ultraviolet (UV) is a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelength from 10 nm (with a corresponding frequency around 30 PHz) to 400 nm (750 THz), shorter than that of visible light, but longer than X-rays.
In the aerospace context, ultraviolet (UV) refers to a range of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than those of visible light, but longer than X-rays. UV radiation can be divided into three main bands: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
Examples of UV in aerospace include:
- UV detectors on satellites used to measure ozone levels in the Earth's atmosphere
- UV spectrometers on spacecraft used to study the composition of planetary atmospheres
- UV-resistant coatings applied to spacecraft to protect against the damaging effects of prolonged exposure to UV radiation
- UV cameras on telescopes used to study distant stars and galaxies
- UV lasers used for communication between spacecraft or between a spacecraft and a ground station