Aircraft visibility in view from below in the long-wave infrared band using infrared cross section.

Aircraft low observables' features are crucial in the long-wave infrared (LW-IR) band, due to imaging sensors used in IR search and track and in the latest generation of IR-guided missiles. Earthshine irradiance on the aircraft bottom surface is an important source; hence, it is derived using data for atmospheric transmission. Emission due to skin-friction heating (important at high εbot) and earthshine reflection (important at low εbot) are compared by a dimensionless ratio for different bottom surface emissivities (εbot). The infrared cross section of aircraft in direct view from below is obtained in the LW-IR band, which shows that aircraft is seen also due to negative contrast.

Scale-invariant entropy-based theory for dynamic ordering.

Dynamically Ordered self-organized dissipative structure exists in various forms and at different scales. This investigation first introduces the concept of an isolated embedding system, which embeds an open system, e.g., dissipative structure and its mass and/or energy exchange with its surroundings. Thereafter, scale-invariant theoretical analysis is presented using thermodynamic principles for Order creation, existence, and destruction. The sustainability criterion for Order existence based on its structured mass and/or energy interactions with the surroundings is mathematically defined. This criterion forms the basis for the interrelationship of physical parameters during sustained existence of dynamic Order. It is shown that the sufficient condition for dynamic Order existence is approached if its sustainability criterion is met, i.e., its destruction path is blocked. This scale-invariant approach has the potential to unify the physical understanding of universal dynamic ordering based on entropy considerations.

Analytical estimation of solid angle subtended by complex well-resolved surfaces for infrared detection studies.

The solid angle (Omega) subtended by the hot power-plant surfaces of a typical fighter aircraft, on the detector of an infrared (IR) guided missile, is analytically obtained. The use of the parallel rays projection method simplifies the incorporation of the effect of the optical blocking by engine surfaces, on Omega-subtended. This methodology enables the evaluation of the relative contribution of the IR signature from well-resolved distributed sources, and is important for imaging infrared detection studies. The complex 3D surface of a rear fuselage is projected onto an equivalent planar area normal to the viewing aspect, which would give the same Omega-subtended.