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