Global simulations of Cn2 using the Weather Research and Forecast Model WRF and comparison to experimental results

Electro-optical and laser systems are operated world-wide. Their performance in the outside atmosphere is mainly governed by the strength of optical turbulence C-n(2). The predictability of C-n(2) using weather-forecast models is investigated by performing simulations with the Weather Research and Forecast Model (WRF). The WRF output data were combined with a micrometeorological parametrization to derive C-n(2). Simulation runs were performed for locations and times included in our worldwide data set of C-n(2) obtained in several field trials over land and over the sea. Experimental data of point and integrated path measurements in the surface layer were compared to model calculations of C-n(2). The regions include different climatic conditions from South Africa, the US, as well as Central and Northern Europe. The applicability of WRF to predict C-n(2) at the different locations will be discussed. It will be shown that WRF in a 1.1-km resolution is adequate to provide a first estimate of C-n(2).