Response of spectral characteristics of wind and temperature of atmospheric surface layer to the noontime annular solar eclipse

The influence of annular solar eclipse of 15 January 2010 on the spectral behaviour of surface layer winds and temperature has been investigated. At the peak of the eclipse, the magnitudes of spectral power of wind and the rate of dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy decreased by an order whereas, the temperature decreased by more than one order. A distinct spectral characteristic of wind components is noticed during the peak phase and for the first time, influence of surface wind speed and wind direction associated with the eclipse on the spectral characteristics of wind components has been investigated.

► The spectral behaviour of surface winds and temperature has been investigated.
► The wind and temperature spectra are significantly modified by solar eclipse.
► The maximum energy of the t-spectra reduced by 95% during eclipse peak.
► Spectral peaks and energy levels in u- and v-spectra show distinct characteristics.
► We report lateral and longitudinal elongation of eddies during eclipse maximum.