A Preliminary Urban Illumination Model

Abstract : The Army increasingly relies on night operations to accomplish it objectives. These night operations frequently require using night vision goggles and other light-sensitive devices, which are strongly affected by ambient lighting, a large component of which is urban. A preliminary urban illumination model is presented for use in tactical decision aids and wargames, which would allow for more accurate prediction of target acquisition ranges and increased realism in simulations. This initial model predicts broadband brightness as a function of population and distance (>10 km) from the city center under clear and overcast conditions. A technical overview of the model, along with future improvements, is presented.