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Multiple Scattering of Laser Pulses in Snow Over Ice: Modeling the Potential Bias in ICESat AltimetryThe primary goal of NASA's current ICESat and future ICESat2 missions is to map the altitude of the Earth's land ice with high accuracy using laser altimetry technology, and to measure sea ice freeboard. Ice however is a highly transparent optical medium with variable scattering and absorption properties. Moreover, it is often covered by a layer of snow with varying depth and optical properties largely dependent on its age. We describe a modeling framework for estimating the potential altimetry bias caused by multiple scattering in the layered medium. We use both a Monte Carlo technique and an analytical diffusion model valid for optically thick media. Our preliminary numerical results are consistent with estimates of the multiple scattering delay from laboratory measurements using snow harvested in Greenland, namely, a few cm. Planned refinements of the models are described.
Document ID
20150008908
Acquisition Source
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Document Type
Conference Paper
External Source(s)
Authors
Davis, A. B.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Varnai, T.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Marshak, A.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
May 26, 2015
Publication Date
July 5, 2010
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Lasers And Masers
Optics
Meeting Information
Meeting: International Conference on Laser Radar (ILRC 25)
Location: St. Petersburg
Country: Russia
Start Date: July 5, 2010
End Date: July 9, 2010
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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