Compact and Efficient Ladar Transmitter Utilizing Novel Cooling Techniques

Over the past decade, the military has invested significantly in the development of laser radar (ladar) technology for application in remote reconnaissance and autonomous seekers. The majority of contemporary ladar systems utilize high pulse repetitionfrequency (PRF), compact, diode end-pumped, solid-state lasers as transmitter sources. Examples of systems currently under development that use this type of laser are LOCASS, DAZZLE, and CMRTR, among others. In order for these systems to reach their fullmilitary utility, they must be very compact, lightweight, rugged, efficient, low cost, and easily mass-produced. One key factor in achieving this level of maturity is the integration of advanced conduction-cooling subsystems to the laser. The workperformed under this program addresses the shortcomings of current laser and laser cooling technology, and provides an innovative approach to meeting the goals of contemporary advanced ladar seeker programs. The product of our Phase-II development will bea fully qualified and packaged ladar transmitter that utilizes advanced active and passive cooling to fulfill the mission requirements of both continuous and intermittent operation, respectively. The laser system under this program will be tested againstthe shock, vibration, and temperature environment of a contemporary missile platform. The laser system technology and demonstration will have direct application in present and planned ladar seeker programs. The laser performance and reliability againstharsh environmental conditions is considered to be among the highest risk items of the ladar seeker system. Therefore, successful environmental testing of the laser transmitter will help reduce the risk for on-going and future advanced ladar seekerprograms. Three-dimensional laser radar is widely accepted as a preferred alternative to stereography as a means of producing digital elevation maps of the Earth's surface. Imaging laser altimeter (ILA) systems utilize the same technology as is employedin contemporary ladar seekers. Lite Cycles, Inc. is currently pursuing ILA as a commercial application of the technology developed under this SBIR program. Lite Cycles, Inc. has identified and targeted two significant markets applicable for relativelyhigh volume production: (1)