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A novel approach to model optical turbulence for the convective boundary layer at Cabauw (NL)

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference paperAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Atmospheric turbulence is a key factor when assessing Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC). Models that allow to quantify path integrated optical turbulence intensity require costly simulations. In this work, we propose an efficient and cheap physics-based framework for estimating Cn2 vertical profiles in the convective boundary layer. We do this using the mixed layer column model CLASS (Chemistry Land-surface Atmosphere Soil Slab), which allows us to simulate surface (sensible and latent) heat fluxes and boundary layer height. Assuming a linear sensible flux profile over the boundary layer, in line with the mixed layer formulation, we derive a Cn2 profile. We validate our approach against turbulence data from optical scintillometers and sonic anemometers at Cabauw, a turbulence test-bed in The Netherlands. In addition we will explore the sensitivity of the Cn2 profile to local surface- and meteorological conditions. Preliminary results are presented and discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEnvironmental Effects on Light Propagation and Adaptive Systems VIII
EditorsKarin Stein, Szymon Gladysz
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781510692787
ISBN (Print)9781510692770
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 27 Oct 2025
Event8th Environmental Effects on Light Propagation and Adaptive Systems - Madrid, Spain
Duration: 17 Sept 202518 Sept 2025

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume13669
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference/symposium

Conference/symposium8th Environmental Effects on Light Propagation and Adaptive Systems
Country/TerritorySpain
CityMadrid
Period17/09/2518/09/25

Keywords

  • CLASS
  • Cn vertical profile
  • convective boundary layer
  • Optical turbulence modeling

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