Eye-Safe Solid-State Lasers For LIDAR Applications

Norman P Barnes

doi:10.1117/12.938648

6 October 1986 Eye-Safe Solid-State Lasers For LIDAR Applications

Norman P Barnes

Proceedings Volume 0663, Laser Radar Technology and Applications I; (1986) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.938648
Event: 1986 Quebec Symposium, 1986, Quebec City, Canada

Abstract

Several solid-state lasers that operate in the eye-safe region of the spectrum could be employed in LIDAR applications. Although laser radar systems based on CO2 laser technology have successfully been employed in wind velocity LIDAR systems, several advantages would accrue if a shorter wavelength laser could be employed. Characteristics that normally improve as the wavelength decreases include: range resolution, velocity error, scattered signal strength, detector detectivity, and optics size. Disadvantage of operation at shorter wavelengths result primarily from the higher quantum-limited noise and increased susceptibility to atmospheric turbulence. However, if the wavelength becomes too short, eye safety problems may result, especially if coherent detection is required. Fortunately several solid-state lasers operate in the nominal eye-safe region, wavelengths longer than 1.5 μm. Solid-state lasers have the additional advantages of compact size and reliability. With the advent of diode pumping, these devices would also have the benefit of extremely long lifetime.

Citation Download Citation

Norman P Barnes "Eye-Safe Solid-State Lasers For LIDAR Applications", Proc. SPIE 0663, Laser Radar Technology and Applications I, (6 October 1986); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.938648

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