Comparison of MODTRAN5 to measured data in the UV band

Abstract

The ultraviolet (UV) band of the electromagnetic spectrum has potential as a host medium for the operation of guided weapons. Unlike in the infrared (IR), a target which is propelled by an air breathing jet engine generates no detectable radiation in the UV band, and is opaque to the background UV produced by the Sun. In theory the blocking of UV radiation from the sun causes a detectable ‘negative contrast’ between the target and the background. In order to determine the outcome of engagement scenarios between airborne platforms and guided weapon systems that utilise a guard channel operating in the UV, it is necessary to accurately model background UV levels. This paper presents a comparison between the atmospheric modelling code moderate resolution atmospheric transmission (MODTRAN®5) and measured data. The spectral irradiance levels generated by the MODTRAN®5 code are compared to those of the World Ozone and Ultraviolet Data Centre (WOUDC ) database, for various global positions and times of year. Radiance data collected at the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom (Shrivenham, England) for various observer geometries is also compared to that generated by the MODTRAN®5 code.