Below is a structured technical summary of the key concepts Boyd presents, specifically focusing on the transition from theoretical radiometry to practical detection.
He famously clarifies the "throughput" (A-Ω product) concept, which dictates how much light can be Coupled through an optical system.
Radiometry and the Detection of Optical Radiation - Wiley-VCH
Here, Boyd tackles atmospheric transmission, absorption bands, and scattering (Rayleigh vs. Mie). This chapter is vital for anyone designing free-space optical communication or remote sensing equipment.