Wherever you are – anywhere in the world – on August 5th, contribute to science by taking a photo of a blank white piece of paper, outside in the sun, between 4:00 and 7:00 pm local time.

Your photo will used to measure how much of the sun’s energy is reflected back from the Earth -- our planet's "albedo." It's one way scientists can monitor how much energy – and heat – is being absorbed by our planet.

Read more at ScienceForCitizens.net

Here is what you need to do:

On August 5, 2011, take a photo between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm local time.
Put a white piece of paper on a flat surface. The white paper should fill 1/4 to 1/2 of the total view.
Do not cast a shadow on the image.
Snap a digital photo. No flash.
Simply upload your photo as directed, below, and include your location (either city/state or latitude/longitude)


Albedo is measured by comparing the response of the white card to the response of the ground surface. Data points will be depicted on a map. We’ll let you know when the results are ready!