AIRBORNE SEARCHLIGHT SIGNALS MEASURED UNDERWATER IN THE CHESAPEAKE BAY
Abstract
Measurements were made of the slant ranges over which light signals from an airborne searchlight were detectable at an underwater receiver in the Chesapeake Bay. These measurements were conducted as part of an investigation being carried on to develop an aircraft/submarine communication system. At night, light signals were successfully transmitted from an airborne searchlight at a maximum altitude of 5000 ft to a receiver 10 ft underwater over a maximum range of approximately 14 naut mi. The beam intensity was one half million candelas. The average of three maximum ranges measured at flight altitudes of 1000, 2000, and 5000 ft was 11.2 naut mi. At a reduced intensity of one tenth million candelas, the average range was 8.3 naut mi. Water in the vicinity of the submerged receiver was murky, and the water surface was agitated by a steady wind. Atmospheric clarity was good, and there was no moonlight. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 25, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0370248
Entities
People
- Carl F. Wingquist
- Gordon L. Stamm
- Robert L. Denningham
- Sanford S. Souser
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory