A STUDY OF THE FEASIBILITY OF MEASURING ATMOSPHERIC DENSITIES BY USING A LASER - SEARCHLIGHT TECHNIQUE
Abstract
An analysis is made of the design of equipment to be used for measuring atmospheric densities by observing the scattering from a laser light- beam projected vertically into the atmosphere. This analysis is made in terms of both the expected scattering under typical conditions and the experimental difficulties which are encountered. A complete description is given of an equipment constructed to make such measurements and the early results are described. It is shown that the method works well with the comparatively simple apparatus used. Up to 30 Km. various dust and aerosol layers can be observed both by day and by night. Between 30 Km. and 70 Km. the variation of the atmospheric density with height can be measured at night and has been found to agree with values calculated on the basis of Rayleigh scattering and assuming a model atmosphere. The possible examination of meteoric dust at altitudes between 80 Km. and 140 Km. is discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0480201
Entities
People
- B. R. Clemesha
- G. S. Kent
- R. W. Wright
Organizations
- University of the West Indies