Modeling the atmospheric refractive index structure parameter using macrometeorological observations.

The dynamic fluctuations in the atmospheric refractive index, commonly referred to as optical turbulence, cause phase distortions of the electromagnetic waves propagating through the atmosphere. The consequent scintillations have large implications for free-space optical communication, laser remote sensing, and directed energy applications. The refractive index structure parameter ( 2), quantifying the strength of these fluctuations, is usually estimated using high-frequency micrometeorological measurements, employing sonic anemometer-thermometers or scintillometers.