A handheld apparatus for measuring atmospheric temperature inversions consisting of a battery powered electronic display portion, a folding pole portion, and a temperature sensor protected from sources of heat radiation. An electronic circuit measures air temperatures at multiple heights accurately by automatically determining when readings have stabilized and reads a tilt sensor to assure temperature readings are at the proper height. Affixing said temperature sensor to the end of a pole while the opposite end is held in the user's hand facilitates waving of the temperature sensor end through the air to increase air flow, therefore, assuring quicker response and accurate air temperature readings. An electronic display indicates the presence and intensity of an atmospheric temperature inversion.