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Molecular absorption of infrared laser radiation in the natural atmosphere

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Abstract

This paper discusses the information available concerning atmospheric molecular absorption of radiation in the 1 to 25μm range. Particular attention is given to the high spectral resolution requirements for predicting laser transmittance. The following subjects are reviewed: the content and variability of the atmosphere, calculations of transmittance and the data on which they are based, and laser measurements of molecular absorption.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Lincoln Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 02173, Lexington, Massachusetts, USA

    P. L. Kelley

  2. Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories, 01730, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA

    R. A. McClatchey

  3. ElectroScience Laboratory, Ohio State University, 43212, Columbus, Ohio, USA

    R. K. Long

  4. IIT Research Institute, 60616, Chicago, Illinois, USA

    A. Snelson

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  1. P. L. Kelley
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  2. R. A. McClatchey
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  3. R. K. Long
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  4. A. Snelson
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Kelley, P.L., McClatchey, R.A., Long, R.K. et al. Molecular absorption of infrared laser radiation in the natural atmosphere. Opt Quant Electron 8, 117–144 (1976). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00619439

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