Modeling of ocean wave effects for LIDAR remote sensing

A simulation nodel is described which generates realizations of the LIDAR return from a wind roughened ocean, including both surface specular and subsurface volumetric returns. The physical model includes representations for the two dimensional wavy surface (gravity waves), beam spread at the interface due to small scale roughness (capillary waves), and beam spread and attenuation due to multiple scattering and absorption in the water. The sensor model allows for arbitrary incidence angles, transmitter divergences, and receiver fields of view. From ensembles of realizations, the statistical characteristics of the surface wave induced fluctuations are determined, such as profiles of variance versus depth, and spatial/temporal correlations of the returns. Model results are compared with experimental data on specular return statistics and downwelling irradiance fluctuations. Predictions are presented for the round trip LIDAR fluctuations induced by surface waves.