First-Principles Earthshine and Skyshine Models

Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) proposes to expand its robust prototype earthshine/skyshine architecture, named Shine, into a fully functional, first-principles model that facilitates the assessment of the impact of infrared, visible, and ultraviolet earthshine and skyshine on missile defense systems. CPI will develop and integrate terrain and cloud components into Shine that will take advantage of widely available satellite imagery. Models of the moon, bright planets, and bright stars will also be included as skyshine components, and a first-principles auroral oval radiance scene model will be developed. CPI will incorporate into Shine improved versions of the standard atmospheric radiation transport models SAMM2 and AURIC. The Shine architecture will incorporate the use of fast running algorithms developed within the computer graphics community and take advantage of massively parallel computing hardware. In order to enhance its earthshine capabilities and to better support the stimulation of MDA optical sensors, Shine will be integrated into the FLITES code. FLITES is the next-generation optical signature code that will be used throughout the DoD to support targeting algorithm development programs and measurement and signature intelligence activities. Its improved capabilities will be of great benefit to the missile defense community.