Measurement of the solar irradiation curve using the Hukseflux SR-22 Pyranometer

Abstract

This study describes the development of a collaborative field practice as an active learning methodology implemented in the Introduction to Energy Engineering course at the Central American Technological University (UNITEC) during the first academic period of 2025, where understanding how atmospheric conditions affect the solar radiation available in a given geographical location is a key concept in their academic training. Using a pyranometer (solar radiation meter), the solar radiation curve was recorded for two consecutive days in the city of San Pedro Sula. The 13 students enrolled in the introductory course successfully compared the recorded solar curves. The implementation of this field practice allowed students to validate, through experimentation, knowledge relevant to their academic training, such as the variability of solar energy throughout the day and the climatic factors that influence it. In addition, they were able to successfully apply the data collection and analysis required for their advanced courses.