Simulation of LIDAR-based aircraft wake vortex detection using a bi-gaussian spectral model

A new spectral model of the return signal from a LIDAR Doppler wake vortex detector is proposed. It has been experimentally discovered during ground-based and flight test campaigns but suffered a lack of theoretical evidence. Using high resolution fluid simulations of wake vortices, we highlight the physical meaning of this model. Comparisons with the traditional single Gaussian model show the superiority of this new approach is consistent with previous experimental results.