High resolution transmittance curves are presented for the spectral region 320-1400 wave numbers. These spectra are useful as a guide for selecting laser wavelengths for atmospheric propagation studies in this spectral region. In addition, this report provides specific information concerning the attenuation coefficients of 41 CO2 rotational laser lines in the 10.4 micrometer band system (v3 to v1). Charts for predicting the atmospheric attenuation of the CO2 laser lines are provided for each of five climatological model atmospheres and two haze models. The current report extends the work presented in two earlier reports on (1) CO laser attenuation in the 1400-2120/cm−1 (4.72-7. 14 micrometers) region: AFCRL-71-0370 and (2) HF and DF laser attenuation in the 2120-3740/cm (2.67-4.72 micrometers) region: AFCRL-72-0312. This report, when combined with the two previous reports described above, provides synthetic spectra for the entire region from 2.67-31.25 micrometers.

This supplement provides several additions and updates to the LOWTRAN 3 computer code, which can be used to calculate the transmittance of the atmosphere from the ultraviolet to the middle infrared portion of the spectrum (0.25 to 28.5 micrometers) at a spectral resolution of 20 cm. The major additions are the inclusion of water vapor continuum attenuation in the 3.5 to 4.2 micrometers region, and a temperature dependence to the H2O continuum attenuation coefficient in both the 4 micrometers and 10 micrometers regions. The contribution of foreign gas broadening in the 8-14 micrometers region has also been reduced. Four aerosol models are included in this supplement. These include three boundary layer aerosol models for maritime, urban, and rural conditions in the lower 2 km of the atmosphere, and a tropospheric model for use mainly above 1 or 2 km altitude. The rural model is a replacement for the average continental model presently in LOWTRAN 3. A temporary provision is also given to accommodate fog conditions when the visual range falls below 2 km. (Author).

An Introduction to Atmospheric Radiation

High resolution atmospheric transmittance curves are presented for the spectral region 320 to 13,200/cm (0.7576 to 31.25 micrometers). These spectra are useful as a guide for selecting laser wavelengths for atmospheric propagation studies in this spectral region. In addition, this report provides attenuation coefficients for those lines of the CO, HF, DF, and CO2 laser systems which suffer the least atmospheric attenuation. A new aerosol model is introduced here, taking into account recent measurements of the complex index of refraction of aerosol particles. (Author).

Fundamentals of Atmospheric Physics emphasizes the interrelationships of physical and dynamical meteorology. The text unifies four major subject areas: atmospheric thermodynamics, hydrostatic equilibrium and stability, atmospheric radiation and clouds, and atmospheric dynamics. These fundamental areas serve as cornerstones of modern atmospheric research on environmental issues like global change and ozone depletion. Physical concepts underlying these subject areas are developed from first principles, providing a self-contained text for students and scholars from diverse backgrounds. The presentation is Lagrangian (single-body problems) in perspective, with a balance of theory and application. Each chapter includes detailed and extensive problems; selected answers are provided, as are appendices of various constants. The text requires a thorough foundation in calculus. - Presents a comprehensive introduction to atmospheric thermodynamics, hydrostatics, radiation and clouds, and dynamics - Develops concepts from first principles, providing a self-contained volume for readers from diverse backgrounds - Emphasizes the interaction of physical processes shaping global problems of atmospheric energetics, transport, and chemistry - Provides a balance of theory and applications, with examples drawn from a wide range of phenomena figuring in global atmospheric research - Extensively illustrated with global satellite imagery and analyses and photographs of laboratory simulations - Exercises apply to a wide range of topical problems

Third edition of John Houghton's acclaimed textbook for advanced undergraduate/graduate courses in atmospheric science.