Adaptive TIL System for Long Range Laser Beam Projection with Enhanced Resolution

Efficient laser beam delivery on a remote target remains a key problem for practical implementation of tactical laser systems. Since the conventional target-in-the-loop (TIL) concept is generally not effective in such operational environments, new solutions are needed. MetroLaser has developed an innovative approach for effective compensation of laser beam aberrations in TIL systems. It is based on a recently devised technique that combines optical phase conjugation (OPC) with a TIL system for effective hot-spot formation. In Phase I, MetroLaser demonstrated a technique that enables delivery of enhanced density laser energy to a selected area on a target through a distributed simulated turbulent atmosphere. Using a model based on the analogy between the TIL system and a laser resonator, positioning of the laser beam on the target is performed at the image plane of a receiving telescope. During Phase I, we proved the concept, examined the performance of the proposed method and experimentally demonstrated the ability of this to concentrate a laser beam on the selected area of a target through simulated turbulence. During Phase II, we will further develop the detailed engineering design of the TIL system, construct a brassboard and perform its complete characterization and validation. The Phase II effort will culminate with TIL system demonstration.