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DIRECTED ENERGY PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

Abstract: 25-Symp-190

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE

Thermostability and Optical Turbulence in the Boundary Layer and Above

The atmosphere, particularly the lowest kilometers of the atmosphere, has profound impacts on high-energy laser weapon systems (HELWS) performance through optical scintillation due to turbulence, which limits the effectiveness and range of the HELWS. Accurate prediction of optical scintillation, critical in operational support, is highly dependent on profound understanding of the physical processes affecting optical turbulence.

In this presentation, we will explore the role of thermal stratification in the atmospheric boundary layers in controlling the spatial and temporal variability of optical turbulence. Measurements from past field campaigns, including those from subtropical and tropical regions, over large inland water surfaces or land surfaces, will be explored. The results will illustrate 1) the vertical profiles in the atmospheric boundary layers and immediately above; and 2) the factors contributing to daytime and nighttime Cn2 variabilities. Variations of Cn2 with thermal stability in the surface layer and the capping inversion will both be presented.

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE