Laser System Usage in the Marine Environment: Applications and Environmental Considerations
Abstract
This report assesses potential environmental impacts of laser systems on organisms found living in the marine environment. To accomplish this objective, the major laser systems used by the Navy in a marine setting were defined, Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) for various ranges were reviewed, and naval researchers were queried to determine the most prominent laser system usage. Once the predominant laser systems were identified, a list of biological groups that may be affected was generated. To determine the potential impact of a laser system to an organism in the marine environment, an assessment pathway with the following four components was developed: (1) laser system specifications, (2) exposure potential, (3) damage thresholds, and (4) potential impacts. Literature was reviewed for information related to both exposure potential as well damage thresholds and expected impacts. As a starting point, the most conservative, or worst case scenario, values for laser system outputs and exposure potential were used in evaluating biological impact, e.g., direct exposure with no energy attenuation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA539808
Entities
People
- Brandon Swope
Organizations
- Naval Information Warfare Systems Command