Extinction of DF Laser Radiation Derived from Outdoor Atmospheric Measurements.
Abstract
Recent advancements in the development of the DF (Deuterium Flouride) laser as a high power device have prompted interest in better defining atmospheric propagation constants for the region of the infrared spectrum in which it emits, 3.5 to 4.0 microns. Existing low resolution spectroscopic studies of these wavelengths indicate that it is a 'window' region and has reasonably better transmission characteristics than most of the infrared. This report covers outdoor field measurements of the atmospheric transmission of four dominant DF laser lines. The measurements were performed at the Advanced Optical Test Facility located at the Verona Test Annex of the Rome Air Development Center. The measurements were made with a pulsed DF laser which was used to transmit across a propagation path of 2000 feet in length. Results are reported here for the 2-1 P(8), 2-1 P(9), 3-2 P(8) and the 2-1 P(6) DF lines. The experimental results are analyzed and compared with the latest in-laboratory measurements. Results indicate that in high humidity environments the differences between laboratory and field measurements become increasingly larger. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA035473
Entities
People
- James W. Cusack
Organizations
- Rome Laboratory