MHz Class Repetitively Q-Switched, High-Power Ruby Lasers for High-Speed Photographic Applications

Abstract

Repetitively pulsed lasers have been developed that have served as excellent illumination sources for high speed framing photography. This invited paper discusses the general subject of laser illuminators for high speed photography as well as specific capabilities of a high repetition rate Q switched ruby laser system that provides laser pulse repetition rates up to 1 MHz. Individual laser pulse energies of tilde 1 J are obtained at a laser repetition rate of 250 kHz, and proportionately lower energies as the pulse repetition rate is increased to 1 MHz. Nearly uniform pulse to pulse micropulse laser pulse energies are obtained providing for nearly constant illumination over the ~120 microsecs laser pulse envelope duration. Example images are provided illustrating the integration of the ruby laser system and camera system with a gun range to obtain high speed framing camera images of ballistic events.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2001
Accession Number
ADA525858

Entities

People

  • D. R. Snyder
  • J. M. Grace
  • Peter E. Nebolsine

Organizations

  • Physical Sciences (United States)

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Amplifiers
  • Cameras
  • Electro-Optics
  • Frequency
  • High Speed Photography
  • Laser Pulses
  • Laser Resonators
  • Lasers
  • Military Research
  • Optics
  • Physical Sciences
  • Pockels Cells
  • Q Switching
  • Repetition Rate
  • Ruby Lasers

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy