Laser measurement of the altitude dependence of the structure parameter of the atmosphere

The slant laser illumination method was used in measuring the altitude dependence of the structure parameter of the atmosphere C²_n(h) over a steppe. The measurements were carried out using a 72.5-m high meteorological tower to which photodetectors were attached. The optical data on the absolute value of this structure parameter and its altitude dependence were in agreement with the results of direct meteorological measurements. It was confirmed that C²_n(h) decreased at a height of ~30 m above ground when the temperature stratification of the atmosphere was unstable.