Compact, Rugged, and Low-Cost Wavelength-Versatile Burst Laser

Very compact, robust, and low cost multi wavelengths burst lasers for standoff CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) detection and identification are proposed. Although a single focused laser pulse on target can do the detection, the probability of hitting the right contaminated spot is low. Therefore, scanning a laser pulse train will cover a larger suspected contaminated area and, hence, most likely will detect the suspected agent. Operating the laser in a burst mode will enable the laser system to simplify dramatically in comparison to a laser that operates continuously at high repetition rate. Diode pumped solid state lasers without any cooling are best suited for this mission. Commercial missions such as the one under development by the University of Vermont for launching laser produced acoustic waves into structures like bridges and roads to detect structural defects can greatly benefit from this burst laser development.