Improving optical atmospheric propagation models with numerical weather prediction and lidar

Stephen Hammel; David Flagg; Mayra I. Oyola; Eric Hallenborg; James R. Campbell

doi:10.1117/12.2323396

10 October 2018 Improving optical atmospheric propagation models with numerical weather prediction and lidar

Stephen Hammel, David Flagg, Mayra I. Oyola, Eric Hallenborg, James R. Campbell

Proceedings Volume 10770, Laser Communication and Propagation through the Atmosphere and Oceans VII; 107700O (2018) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2323396
Event: SPIE Optical Engineering + Applications, 2018, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

The propagation of light through an atmospheric optical channel is modified by scattering effects that include extinction, bulk refraction, and optical turbulence. For most paths exceeding 1 kilometer, the effects of the atmosphere can be substantial, changing the effectiveness and performance of many passive and active optical systems. An accurate assessment of the optical channel within the planetary boundary layer remains a difficult problem. We are interested in propagation paths from surface to several kilometers in height, over a path of 2 to 10 kilometers in length. The current model approach uses vertical profiles of extinction and turbulence intensity to provide the fundamental requirements for assessment of optical propagation effects. The central problem we address here is the fact many of the atmospheric profile models are parametric or regression models, and the model parameters are frequently determined by a set of meteorological conditions at a single near-surface point. It is apparent that very little of the complex physics within the interior of the propagation volume is reproduced. The top of the atmospheric boundary layer is a dynamic region, with a possibility of large changes in aerosol extinction and turbulence, and we will describe new efforts to utilize numerical weather prediction (NWP) and ground-based lidar to provide more accurate atmospheric profiles.

Conference Presentation

Citation Download Citation

Stephen Hammel, David Flagg, Mayra I. Oyola, Eric Hallenborg, and James R. Campbell "Improving optical atmospheric propagation models with numerical weather prediction and lidar", Proc. SPIE 10770, Laser Communication and Propagation through the Atmosphere and Oceans VII, 107700O (10 October 2018); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2323396

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