Date of Award
2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Physics
Committee Chair
Don A. Gregory
Committee Member
Kenneth A. Herren
Committee Member
Sayed Sadeghi
Subject(s)
Optical radar--Calibration, Reflectance, Fluoropolymers--Optical properties
Abstract
The bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) is of substantial interest to those involved with laser radar (LADAR) target signature modelling. Measured, empirical data must often be used in place of mathematical models due to the complexity of targets encountered in real-world situations. When using a coherent illumination source, interference effects, such as coherent backscatter, must also be considered. This work demonstrates a calibration method for a reference standard as well as the material’s reflectance characteristics. The selected material, Spectralon, was chosen for its well-known diffuse scattering characteristics. Spectralon’s BRDF was measured for 0 through 80 degree incidence angles as well as bistatic angles from -3 to +3 degrees. Enhanced BRDF levels near the retroreflective region due to coherent backscatter were observed for parallel polarizations.
Recommended Citation
Walker, William Eugene, "Bidirectional reflectance distribution function measurements of Spectralon® at 1.064 micron" (2020). Theses. 344.
https://louis.uah.edu/uah-theses/344