Due to Rayleigh scattering of light, ozone has a pale blue tint that is visible only in high concentrations. Near the surface it is considered a pollutant and is detrimental to the human respiratory system. However, in the stratosphere, ozone is beneficial as an absorber of ultraviolet radiation coming in from space. When this occurs in the stratosphere, the ability of the atmosphere to block the ultraviolet radiation is diminished. Latest Antarctic Ozone counts from the TOMS sensor.
Lower values are in blue and purple.
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