Tactical Considerations of Atmospheric Effects on Laser Propagation.
Abstract
This report describes the progress made during the third quarter of Phase III of a study of atmospheric effects on laser propagation, in connection with the operation of certain tactical weapon systems. The SRI Mark VI lidar system, which consists of a neodymium laser transmitter and two independent receivers, was used to measure backscattered laser energy and monitor the laser emission. Errors associated with measurement of atmospheric transmission by a single-ended transmitter-receiver aligned on a cooperative target were experimentally investigated. Results indicate that experimental errors are within estimated values except for uncertainties caused by turbulent intensity fluctuations introduced within the target-reflected energy, which is at least twice that estimated. It is suggested that the two independent 15-cm aperture receivers each separated an equal distance from the laser transmitter be used to investigate these turbulence effects. A second-harmonic generator and an appropriate receiver were added to the Mark VI lidar, which makes it possible to transmit and receive 1.06-micrometers and 0.53-micrometers energy simultaneously. Initial calibration and crosstalk checking was completed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- ADB000123
Entities
People
- Edward E. Uthe
- Robert J. Allen
Organizations
- SRI International