Retrospective review of the results of research in atmospheric optics is presented including the spectral transmittance of the atmosphere, the patterns of transfer of optical radiation and image through scattering media, and the refraction of light in the Earth's atmosphere. Advances in experimental procedure and optical technology are discussed as well as the prospects for their application to integrated climatic—ecological monitoring. Results of processing of homogeneous series of observations on the individual climatic—ecological parameters of the atmosphere are given.