Reconstruction of the net emission distribution from the total radiance distribution on a reflecting surface

The problem is considered of reconstructing, from a measurement of the total radiance distribution on an emitting surface, the radiance distribution that would be observed in the absence of reflected radiation. An explicit solution of the implied inverse problem is derived for the case in which the reflective properties of the surface are given in terms of a bidirectional reflection distribution function. Also considered are the limiting cases of diffuse and specular reflection. Practical considerations are discussed for application of the theory to the nonintrusive and remote measurement of temperatures and pressures on concave surfaces, either by traditional radiometry or by the use of thermographic phosphors and temperature- and pressure-sensitive paints.