Modeling the scattering of light in three-dimensional canopies: contribution of a Monte Carlo ray tracing approach

Extracting quantitative information from remote sensing data requires analytical tools such as canopy reflectance models to interpret radiative measurements in terms of the quantities of Interest. A new model (Raytran) of radiation transfer in complex three-dimensional media, taking advantage of the latest ray tracing computer graphics techniques, has been developed to study the transfer of solar radiation in terrestrial environments over a variety of spatial scales. This model is used as a “virtual laboratory”, to generate reflectances and absorption profiles of complex targets, where all geometrical and physical quantities can be controlled explicitly. The accuracy of this model has been established by comparison with other Monte Carlo models and with laboratory measurements. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate potential applications of this model