Ground Layer Laser Seeing Meter

Abstract

The seeing calculation and its evolution during the night is a key point for the operation of telescopes and adaptive optics systems. Currently, there are various instruments able to measure the seeing, for example, the DIMM (differential image motion monitor) and the MASS (multi aperture scintillation sensor). This paper describes a new tool for the local ground layer seeing measurement. In particular, we want to derive the Fried parameter r0 through a laser beam horizontal propagation. This is a new method for the experimental study of low-altitude atmospheric turbulence. Finally, we sketch an experimental setup for the Asiago Ekar Observatory and its possible applications. © 2014. The Astronomical Society of the Pacific. All rights reserved.