Improving future optical turbulence calculations

Arnold Tunick

doi:10.1117/12.614478

18 August 2005 Improving future optical turbulence calculations

Arnold Tunick

Proceedings Volume 5891, Atmospheric Optical Modeling, Measurement, and Simulation; 589106 (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.614478
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Optical turbulence information is important because it describes an atmospheric effect that can significantly degrade the performance of electromagnetic systems and sensors, e.g., free-space optical communications and infrared imaging. However, analysis of selected past research indicates that there are some areas (i.e., data and models) in which optical turbulence information is lacking. For example, optical turbulence data coupled with atmospheric characterization models in hilly terrain, coastal areas, and within cities are few in number or non-existent. In addition, the bulk of existing atmospheric computer models being used to provide estimates of optical turbulence (Cn2) intensity are basically one-dimensional in nature and assume uniform turbulence conditions over large areas. As a result, current program codes may be deficient or in error for non-uniform areas, such as environments with changing topography and energy budgets. By exploring alternate (non-similarity) numerical models for momentum, Reynolds stress, and heat flux we suggest that some very practical computational research can be performed to provide better characterization of optical turbulence (Cn2) and related effects beyond current limitations.

Citation Download Citation

Arnold Tunick "Improving future optical turbulence calculations", Proc. SPIE 5891, Atmospheric Optical Modeling, Measurement, and Simulation, 589106 (18 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.614478

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available