A Heterodyne Detection FM-CW Laser Radar Using a 10 micrometers Source.

Abstract

The feasibility of a heterodyne detection FM-CW laser radar capable of providing simultaneous range and velocity information was investigated. Linear triangular frequency modulation was accomplished with an acoustooptic modulator. Two separate optical configurations were investigated. Ranges to 2400 plus or minus 30 yards were measured using a two-inch retro-reflector as a target, with a 7000-yard maximum predicted range. Velocities as low as .37 m/sec were easily measured, and the system was estimated to have a velocity resolution of approximately .05 m/sec. The measured receiver sensitivity was approximately 30 db below the theoretical limit. An unexplained zero velocity return was observed from a moving target with the second optical configuration. A signal contamination of the local oscillator beam was also observed.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1974
Accession Number
ADA005865

Entities

People

  • Maurice F. Fraunfelder Jr

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Detection
  • Frequency
  • Frequency Modulation
  • Heterodyne Detection
  • Laser Radar
  • Lasers
  • Local Oscillators
  • Modulation
  • Modulators
  • Moving Targets
  • Oscillators
  • Targets

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Combustion and Flow Dynamics.
  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Sensor Fusion and Tracking Systems.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Directed Energy - Lasers