Identify the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, and the processes within the at-mosphere that affect it.

Identify the four factors affecting target detection.  

Name the various types of target acquisition systems, and identify the most proficient system.

Identify the two major components of precision guided munitions (PGMs).

Identify the advantages and disadvantages of PGMs.

Effects of the atmosphere and Earths surface on electromagnetic energy

In this lesson, we will take a close look at the effects the atmosphere and Earths surface has on the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum and the systems that use electrooptics.

Electrooptics is another subject that deals with the electromagnetic spectrum. It is defined as that branch of physics that deals with the influence of an electric field upon light crossing the field.

The most common form of electrooptical equipment is the television. Electrooptical sensors are used in many of todays bombs and missiles. Such bombs and missiles are known as precision guided munitions (PGMs).

The ability of PGMs to hit a target is depend-ent on a number of factors, one of which is the environmental conditions between the PGM and its target. PGMs employ various sensors to locate and track targets and to guide PGMs to their targets. The effects of the environment on PGMs and their sensors is the basis for this lesson.

The forecast weather for a target area maybe the deciding factors in whether to use PGMs. Over a target area, pilots are kept extremely busy when the weather is unfavorable. They must spend considerable time trying to locate and lock on targets in poor weather. This is in addition to flying their craft, and trying to avoid enemy air-craft and ground defenses.

Learning Objective: Identify the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, that affect it.

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