The usage of long-range optical systems for tracking applications encounters regions of deep turbulence throughout propagation. Such conditions lead to the inability to remain on target for a tracked object due to scintillation. To mitigate this issue, a double pass optical system is utilized as a means of tracking enhanced backscatter (EBS) and thus keeping alignment while characterizing turbulent conditions. EBS is detected through image processing algorithms that capture the returning constructive interference from the target. This paper evaluates EBS optical systems using a retro-reflector at a 1 kilometer distance in order to validate theoretical models that typify atmospheric turbulence regarding low-ground propagation. Meteorological conditions are also included in the empirical data obtained for the analysis of atmospheric conditions that contribute to non-homogenous turbulent conditions along the path.
Utilizing a retro-reflector from a target point, the reflected irradiance of a laser beam traveling back toward the transmitting point contains a peak point of intensity known as the enhanced backscatter (EBS) phenomenon. EBS is dependent on the strength regime of turbulence currently occurring within the atmosphere as the beam propagates across and back. In order to capture and analyze this phenomenon so that it may be compared to theory, an imaging system is integrated into the optical set up. With proper imaging established, we are able to implement various post-image acquisition techniques to help determine detection and positioning of EBS which can then be validated with theory by inspection of certain dependent meteorological parameters such as the refractive index structure parameter, Cn2 and wind speed.
The alternative Bendersky, Kopeika, and Blaunstein (BKB) model of measuring the refractive structure index parameter, Cn2 has proven to be a reliable, well-used means of quantifying and characterizing the atmospheric turbulence in a given environment. This model relies on various meteorological parameters such as temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and time of day in order to procure the resulting Cn2 quantity. Using experimentally confirmed results from a desert environment, the utility of this model may be extended to other climates by adapting temporal hour weights used within the model. The adaptation of these weighted parameters are shown to have a relationship with the unique weather conditions of a given region which are demonstrated by data points collected from two testing ranges located in Florida in addition to archived weather data. The resulting extended model is then compared to commercial scintillometer data for validation.
In order to better understand laser beam propagation through the analysis of the fluctuations in scintillation data, images from a 30 frame per second monochrome camera are utilized. Scintillation is the effect of atmospheric turbulence which is known to disrupt and alter the intensity and formation of a laser signal as it propagates through the atmosphere. To model and understand this phenomenon, recorded video output of a laser upon a target screen is inspected to determine how much of an effect the atmospheric turbulence has disrupted the laser signal as it has been propagated upon a set distance. The techniques of data processing outlined in this paper moves toward a software-based approach of determining the effects of propagation and detection of a laser based on the visual fluctuations caused by the scintillation effect. With the aid of such visual models, this paper examines the idea of implementing mathematical models via software that is then validated by the gathered video data taken at Kennedy Space Center.
The purpose of this research is to evaluate scintillation fluctuations on optical communication lasers and evaluate potential system improvements to reduce scintillation effects. This research attempts to experimentally verify mathematical models developed by Andrews and Phillips [1] for scintillation fluctuations in atmospheric turbulence using two different transmitting wavelengths. Propagation range lengths and detector quantities were varied to confirm the theoretical scintillation curve. In order to confirm the range and wavelength dependent scintillation curve, intensity measurements were taken from a 904nm and 1550nm laser source for an assortment of path distances along the 1km laser range at the Townes Laser Institute. The refractive index structure parameter (Cn2) data was also taken at various ranges using two commercial scintillometers. This parameter is used to characterize the strength of atmospheric turbulence, which induces scintillation effects on the laser beam, and is a vital input parameter to the mathematical model. Data was taken and analyzed using a 4-detector board array. The material presented in this paper outlines the verification and validation of the theoretical scintillation model, and steps to improve the scintillation fluctuation effects on the laser beam through additional detectors and a longer transmitting wavelength. Experimental data was post processed and analyzed for scintillation fluctuations of the two transmitting wavelengths. The results demonstrate the benefit of additional detectors and validate a mathematical model that can be scaled for use in a variety of communications or defense applications. Scintillation is a problem faced by every free space laser communication system and the verification of an accurate mathematical model to simulate these effects has strong application across the industry.
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