High-efficiency, frequency-agile MWIR-LWIR laser source for DIAL

The proliferation of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons among rogue nations and terrorist organizations necessitates that the US develop the means of detecting the development of these weapons before they can be deployed against US and alliedmilitary assets and civilian targets. The US government has demonstrated that Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) is one means of stand-off, covert, remote detection of chemical signatures characteristic of the development of these weapons. However,current DIAL transmitters lack the laser power and overall electrical efficiency needed for deployment onboard unmanned aerial vehicles or reconnaissance satellites. This program aims to demonstrate an innovative all solid-state laser transmitter suitablefor incorporation into next-generation mobile DIAL sensors. A compact, high-efficiency, diode-pumped laser that pumps a single-stage optical parametric oscillator capable of simultaneous output in both the MWIR and LWIR spectral regions is proposed. Thetransmitter will be capable of electronically accessing any wavelength of interest and of scanning among wavelengths at a 10-50 kHz rate. In Phase I we will demonstrate that the proposed transmitter can meet DIAL wavelength, tuning and linewidthrequirements. A detailed transmitter design will be developed. Additionally, risk reduction experiments will be conducted to demonstrate key elements of the design.Frequency-agile laser transmitters are needed for commercial DIAL sensors suitable forindustrial chemical detection, pollution monitoring, and leak detection. These lasers are also useful for scientific applications such as high-resolution optical spectroscopy. High electrical efficiency infrared lasers are needed for variety ofapplications including wind-sensing, free-space optical communications, search and rescue beacons, infrared countermeasures and surgery.