Remote Detection of Clear Air Turbulence by Means of Airborne Infrared Instruments

Air temperature gradients are frequently associated with Clear Air Turbulence. Radiation measuring instruments have already been used for the remote sensing of air temperature. A suitably-designed instrument should give adequate warning of turbulence regions ahead and provide an opportunity for their avoidance. A spectral scanning infrared radiometer has been designed for this purpose and is described in this paper. Extensive ground tests have been conducted, including making atmospheric temperature analyses in horizontal and vertical directions. Mountaintop tests are being planned and airborne tests will follow. Detection ranges of 25 miles are anticipated.