Coherent Laser Radar Atmospheric Turbulence Sensor

The proposed Phase I program develops and investigates the feasibility of a novel, single-ended, range-resolved refractive turbulence profiler. This system is based on solid-state coherent laser radar technology and therefore has the potential for characterizing wind turbulence as well. The subject innovation provides real-time turbulence profiles that can benefit missile defense sensors, such as the Airborne Laser (ABL), by generating on-line risk assessments as a function of the engagement geometry. Refractive turbulence characterization, specifically as it relates to breaking wave structures near the tropopause, can also be performed. For ground level installations the subject sensor would benefit boundary layer meterological research as well as nowcasting applications. For the ABL, range-resolved C{super 2/sub n} profiling to ranges on the order of 50 to 100 km is expected, with profile update rates of 0.1 to 10 Hz. In Phase II, CTI will extend the performance analysis and demonstrate a breadboard prototype ground-base sensor. The extended performance analysis will capture the higher order effects that were ignored in the Phase I first order analysis. The potential use of an existing 200 mJ/pulse USAF/CTI 1 micron coherent lidar will be examined as the baseline Phase II demonstration platform. For the ground-based sensor, profiles to ranges on the order of 10-20 km is expected.