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Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
The sun emits a spectrum of electromagnetic radiation. UV radiation is one part of this spectrum. Other parts of the spectrum are gamma rays, x-rays, visible light, infra-red radiation (which is felt as heat) and radio waves.

UV radiation is one part of the sun’s spectrum of electromagnetic radiation

There are three different types of UV radiation:
  • UVA – which transmits freely through the earth’s atmosphere
  • UVB – which is partially absorbed by the atmosphere
  • UVC – which is completely absorbed by the atmosphere.

    UVA and UVB both contribute to skin cancer and other damage caused by over-exposure to UV radiation from the sun.

    UV radiation cannot be seen or felt – we see visible radiation as light and feel infra-red radiation as heat. In cooler locations, where access to warmth and light may be desirable, outdoor spaces can be designed to protect against UV radiation but permit access to visible and infra-red radiation.

    In WebShade, ShadeCalendar allows users to determine in which months of the year people are likely to want warmth outdoors and for which months protection from UV radiation is required.