Method for calculating the probability density of fluctuations of IR radiation front the wavy surface of the sea in the 3-14-mu m range

The distribution law of the radiance fluctuations of IR radiation from the wavy surface of the sea is investigated in terms of a stochastic facet mode l. The model takes into account features of die shading of the facets for a n arbitrary orientation of the lines of sight, differences in the angular d istribution of the downward radiation of the sky, and the three-dimensional character of the waviness of the sea. The results of the study are evidenc e that there are substantial discrepancies from the normally obtained fluct uation-distribution law of the radiance of radiation from. the sea in the 3 -14-mu m range. (C) 1999 The Optical Society of America. [S1070-9762(99)007 08-3].