A time constant is the amount of time it takes for a meteorological sensor to respond to a rapid change in a measurand until it is measuring values within the accuracy tolerance usually expected of the sensor.
This most often applies to measurements of temperature, dewpoint temperature, humidity and air pressure. Radiosondes are especially affected due to their rapid increase in altitude.
Famous quotes containing the words time and/or constant:
“Every time we get near the land you get that look on your face. When a man goes to sea, he ought to give up thinking about things on shore. Land don’t want him no more. I’ve had me share of things go wrong and all come from the land. Now I’m through with the land and the land’s through with me.”
—Dudley Nichols (1895–1960)
“Love not me for comely grace,
For my pleasing eye or face,
Nor for any outward part:
No, nor for a constant heart!”
—Unknown. Love Not Me for Comely Grace (l. 1–4)