8. Atmospheric turbulence

The propagation of optical waves through atmospheric turbulence has given rise to complex mathematical developments. The aim of the following paragraphs is to provide the reader with an initial introduction, some physical explanations and working formulas. For a more complete and rigorous approach, please refer to the works cited in the references.

8.1 Definition

Turbulence occurs when the Reynolds number (velocity × dimension /viscosity) of a flow exceeds a certain value (typically 2,000, which is always true in the free atmosphere). The flow then passes from a laminar state, where the velocity vectors of each molecule are equal, to a more chaotic state characterized by the appearance of eddies, called turbulent.

In the atmosphere, where...

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Atmospheric turbulence