GL Atmospheric Propagation Codes for DoD Systems
Abstract
The Geophysics Laboratory has developed a set of atmospheric propagation codes for Department of Defense systems. The LOWTRAN (Low Spectral Resolution Transmission) Code is used for all systems for which low resolution transmission is adequate (e.g., imaging systems). FASCODE (Fast Atmospheric Signature Code) is applied to those requiring high resolution transmission (e.g., laser systems). By calculating the effects of atmospheric transmittance/radiance on optical/infrared systems, LOWTRAN and FASCODE considerably enhance both the design of DoD systems and their operational performance. In 1978 the two codes, together with the supporting HITRAN data base, were declared the standard propagation models for DoD agencies by the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. The codes are currently in use with a wide variety of tactical and strategic systems. In the tactical arena, they are indispensable to evaluate the performance of electro/optical systems for 'smart weapons,' such as the Imaging Infrared (IIR) Maverick and the PAVE TACK System. In the strategic arena, they support the operation of infrared detection and surveillance systems and of ground based laser weapons being developed for the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI). Responding to the 1978 directive from OUSDRE, GL continues to update and expand its propagation codes. The new moderate resolution (MODTRAN) transmission code completed in 1989 responds to anticipated requirements for aerial reconnaissance and targeting.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA332703
Entities
People
- Ruth P. Liebowitz