Abstract

Optical propagation conditions in the mid-infrared wave lengths (3-5 micrometers) are determined by water vapor and aerosol concentrations, primarily by the former. In regions of varying surface conditions, water vapor can vary in a complex manner making analysis and forecasting of optical propagation difficult. The purpose of this experiment is to a) describe the variation of water vapor in a marine region characterized by varying surface conditions, viz, the north wall of the Gulf Stream and b) to demonstrate the utility of a differential absorption LIDAR (DIAL) system for remote sensing of water vapor variations.

© 1983 Optical Society of America