Project Title:

Highly Efficient High Energy Laser for Space-Based Lidars

94-1	08.03	8736

Highly Efficient High Energy Laser for Space-Based Lidars

Abstract:

High pulse energy, highly efficient diode-pumped 2 micron lasers 
are of great interest for space-based coherent laser radar systems. 
Lidar modeling suggests that 0.5-1 J pulse energies at pulse 
repetition frequencies of about 10 Hz will be sufficient to meet 
many lidar mission requirements. CTI has recently conceptualized 
novel approaches to the development of efficient 2 micron lasers, 
and propose to extend current medium energy development work to the 
high pulse energy regime. Our numerical 
models indicate that a 0.5 J/pulse laser operating with an 
electrical-to-optical efficiency of 5-10% in a simple oscillator 
configuration, is feasible to build with off-the-shelf 
components available today. This is a significant advance over 
realistic estimates of conventional oscillator/ amplifier 
configurations. Key features of the novel designs are described 
in the proposal. During Phase I we propose to make detailed 
model calculations of laser performance, and provide a 
conceptual design of a demonstrator system. Support of the 
proposed work will complement NASA's ongoing efforts to develop 
efficient high-energy sources for space-based lidar systems.

Efficient high power lasers will find uses as transmitters in 
lidar systems and as free-standing units. Lidar applications 
(long-range/high altitude wind mapping from the ground, in-situ 
high altitude turbulence measurements, hard-target 
ranging/tracking, etc.) exist for reduced eye hazard, high 
energy, high efficiency laser sources. The proposed lasers will 
also be well-suited for medical applications, such as corneal 
sculpting, as well as industrial applications.

KEY WORDS

Coherent Technologies, Inc.
P. O. Box 7488
Boulder, CO  80306