Applied Optics, 37, pp 2464-2472

A Practical Model for the Calculation of Multiply Scattered Lidar Returns

Edwin W. Eloranta
University of Wisconsin
1225 W. Dayton St.
Madison, Wisconsin 53706

Abstract

This paper presents an equation to predict the intensity of the multiply scattered lidar return. Both the scattering cross section and the scattering phase function can be specified as a function of range. This equation applies when the cloud particles are larger than the lidar wavelength. This approximation considers photon trajectories with multiple small-angle forward scattering events and one large-angle scattering which directs the photon back towards the receiver. Comparisons with Monte Carlo simulations, exact double scatter calculations, and lidar data demonstrate that this model provides accurate results.


Return to the Publications.
Return to the Index.
eloranta@lidar.ssec.wisc.edu