Book Description

Rawinsonde data from several locations in the United States are used to obtain free atmosphere estimates of (C2n) (optical), the index of refraction structure parameter. Wind and temperature data are used to calculate N, the square of the Brunt-Vaisalla frequency, S, the wind shear squared term, and the Richardson number at kilometer intervals from 1 km to 25 km. These quantities are inputs to the Van Zandt model to determine (C2n). Also, the rms wind speed (u), obtained from the rawinsonde data, is used as input to the Hufnagel model to obtain (C2n). Aspects of the (C2n) models are discussed and comparisons are made using model results and (C2n) radar measurements. Statistical analysis of results indicate significant differences in media (C2n) distributions for both season and latitude. Coherence lengths (r sub o) for plane wave propagation down through the atmosphere are estimated and dropoff rates of (C sub n squared) (in dB/km) are calculated from 15 km to 25 km.