Absolute scattering functions and transmission values for interpreting laser light scattering in the mesosphere

Abstract

Calculations of the absolute scattering functions for Rayleigh and Mie‐particle scattering are given for a wavelength of 7000 A and for particle radii ranging from 0.056 to 1.67 microns and indices of refraction of 1.330 and 1.500. Transmission values for a molecular atmosphere and an atmosphere containing particles are presented, and night airglow background is estimated. The particle concentrations necessary for Mie scattering to equal Rayleigh scattering are given for various scattering angles and particle sizes. Integrated scattering for two assumed particle size distributions is shown, and the absolute particle concentrations for Mie scattering to equal Rayleigh scattering are obtained. The use of the calculations in systems for measuring particle concentrations by light scatter is discussed.