A Model to Forecast Seeing and Estimate C2N Profiles from Meteorological Data
Abstract
From the statistical study of 162 profiles of meteorological balloons equipped with microthermal sensors, a new model is proposed, linking the temperature fluctuation structure constant (C2T) to the gradient of the mean potential temperature. This model is able to provide a vertical profile of the optical turbulence index (C2N) from a temperature profile, with a 1 km vertical resolution. Compared with the Vernin-Tatarski model and the median C2N profile, it gives better results as a profiler and seeing estimator. Within a large seeing distribution between 0.3" and 3", 58% are estimated with less than 30% of error. Our model fits well this wide median seeing range, which extends from 0.7" at Cerro Pachón to 2.9" at the South Pole.
- Publication:
-
Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific
- Pub Date:
- May 2006
- DOI:
- 10.1086/503165
- Bibcode:
- 2006PASP..118..756T
- Keywords:
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- Atmospheric Effects;
- Site Testing;
- Turbulence