Question

What requires task certified control tower personnel to make tower prevailing visibility observations when the prevailing visibility at the usual point of observation or at the tower level, is less than 4 statute miles (6000 meters)?

Answer 1

The question addresses the physics of optics related to the Rayleigh criterion for resolving two objects, and the procedures for air traffic control personnel when visibility is impaired due to weather conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question you asked relates to the ability to resolve two objects at a distance, which is governed by the Rayleigh criterion in physics, specifically optics. The question also covers the task of control tower personnel in observing weather conditions that affect visibility while monitoring aircraft positions.

For example, about resolving two towers using the Rayleigh criterion: the angle (θ) between two resolvable points is θ = 1.22 λ / D where λ is the wavelength of light and D is the diameter of the pupil. To calculate whether the human eye can resolve two objects, you would use the distance to the objects (L) and their separation (d) in addition to the Rayleigh criterion.

In air traffic control, tower personnel are required to make prevailing visibility observations when visibility is below a certain threshold, to ensure safety in aircraft operations. This task is important to manage when weather conditions limit visibility, as cloud cover, wind, and rain can significantly impact airport operations and aircraft safety.