Retrieve the evaporation duct height by least-squares support vector machine algorithm

Abstract

The detection and tracking of naval targets, including low Radar Cross Section (RCS) objects like inflatable boats or sea skimming missiles requires a thorough knowledge of the propagation properties of the maritime boundary layer. Models are in existence, which allow a prediction of the propagation factor using the parabolic equation algorithm. As a necessary input, the refractive index has to be known. This index, however, is strongly influenced by the actual atmospheric conditions, characterized mainly by temperature, humidity and air pressure. An approach is initiated to retrieve the vertical profile of the refractive index from the propagation factor measured on an onboard target. The method is based on the LS-SVM (Least-Squares Support Vector Machines) theory. The inversion method is here used to determine refractive index from data measured during the VAMPIRA campaign (Validation Measurement for Propagation in the Infrared and RAdar) conducted as a multinational approach over a transmission path across the Baltic Sea. As a propagation factor has been measured on two reference reflectors mounted onboard a naval vessel at different heights, the inversion method can be tested on both heights. The paper describes the experimental campaign and validates the LS-SVM inversion method for refractivity from propagation factor on simple measured data.