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Related Experiment Videos

Ray tracing and refraction in the modified US1976 atmosphere.

Siebren Y van der Werf1

  • 1Kernfysisch Versneller Instituut, University of Groningen, Zernikelaan 25, 9747 AA Groningen, The Netherlands. vdwerf@kvi.nl

Applied Optics
|February 7, 2003
PubMed
Summary

A flexible ray-tracing method calculates astronomical refraction using the modified US1976 (MUSA76) atmosphere. This new approach accounts for variations in temperature and pressure, offering accurate results for various altitudes.

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Area of Science:

  • Astronomy
  • Atmospheric Science
  • Geophysics

Background:

  • Astronomical refraction is crucial for accurate celestial navigation and observation.
  • Existing models often rely on fixed atmospheric parameters, limiting their applicability.
  • The US1976 standard atmosphere provides a baseline but requires adaptation for varied conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To introduce a novel and adaptable ray-tracing procedure for astronomical refraction calculations.
  • To develop the modified US1976 (MUSA76) atmosphere, allowing variable sea-level temperature and pressure.
  • To provide a comprehensive method for calculating dry-air refractions and water-vapor corrections.

Main Methods:

  • A flexible ray-tracing algorithm was developed for astronomical refraction.

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  • The US1976 standard atmosphere was modified (MUSA76) to incorporate variable surface conditions.
  • Analytical expressions and numerical methods were derived for refraction and humidity corrections.

    • Main Results:

    • The MUSA76 atmosphere and ray-tracing procedure were applied across all apparent altitudes.
    • Calculated refractions were compared against established almanacs and tables (Star Almanac, Nautical Almanac, Pulkovo).
    • The study analyzed the impact of sea-level pressure, temperature, gradient, and humidity on refraction.

    Conclusions:

    • The new ray-tracing method provides a flexible and accurate way to compute astronomical refraction.
    • The MUSA76 atmosphere model enhances the applicability of refraction calculations under diverse environmental conditions.
    • The findings offer improved tools for astronomical observations and geodetic applications.