Transfer of lightning optical radiation into space through the cloud layer

Abstract

We have developed mathematical models and performed simulations of transfer of short optical impulses through the cloud layer into space. The main cloud layer variables chosen are its vertical optical and geometrical depths. The physical processes behind the time-amplitude characteristics of the radiative field are studied. It is shown that the presence of a cloud layer results in a formation of a secondary source at the upper boundary of a cloud and in substantial distortions in the temporal pattern of the initial impulse.