An analytical performance model for active imaging systems including slant-path applications

We have implemented the approach for modeling the target acquisition performance of active imaging systems (gated viewing) introduced by the US Army Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD) and extended it to slant-path scenarios. For slant laser pulse propagation paths there are two important physical effects which have to be taken into account: the height dependency of both the atmospheric turbulence strength and the atmospheric extinction. The influence of these modifications on sensor performance has been investigated. Two theoretical daytime profiles for the atmospheric turbulence strength were considered and own measurements of Cn2 are presented.