STUDY OF A MULTI-PULSE LASER RANGE FINDER
Abstract
A programmed multi-pulse optical radar range finder is analyzed. An experimental multi-pulse laser has been developed and its characteristics are described. If the target is optically 'smooth', or is well resolved by the receiver, the multi-pulse range finder has an effective power gain slightly less than its output energy gain when the noise level is low and the detection probability is high. The useful energy gain of a ruby laser due to multi- pulsing was experimentally measured as about 8 dB. Under the conditions of geodetic satellite ranging, the target is generally optically 'rough' in the extreme; then the multi-pulse range finder has a power gain of from 10 dB to over 25 dB, depending on the relative transmitter efficiencies and the acceptable detection probability. This significant increase in the advantage of the multi-pulse system results from the detection statistics that are valid when signal scintillation due to the target is present.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 20, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0642447
Entities
People
- Sumner Ackerman
- Thomas S. Morrison