High-Precision Eye-Safe Doppler Wind LIDAR

In response to the Army's request for a compact eye-safe light detection and ranging (LIDAR) device for high-precision, remote measurement of atmospheric turbulence caused by air vehicles or natural phenomena, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes todevelop a frequency modulation (FM) LIDAR based on a powerful continuous wave (CW) laser diode. Utilizing the possibility of direct modulation of the laser diode emission with a high frequency, such a system can provide both a high-range resolution and ahigh accuracy of Doppler shift measurement. Simplification of the signal processing electronics will be achieved by employing a voltage-modulated optical detector for range measurement. The Phase I project will include a comprehensive system analysis anddesign of its major components. In Phase II, the LIDAR prototype will be built and delivered for testing and performance evaluation. During both Phases I and II, POC will conduct market analysis and identification of financial and other resources thatwill ensure successful commercialization of the new technology in Phase III.In addition to its specific military application for the detection airborne targets by their turbulence signatures, the proposed compact, eye-safe LIDAR can be widely used atmilitary and civilian airports for detection of wind shear and other strong atmospheric vortexes. Such vortexes can be generated by large aircraft and can exist in the atmosphere for a long time after a large aircraft lands. They are extremely dangerousfor smaller aircraft. Wind shear, microbursts, and other clear-air disturbances are dangerous for both large and small aircraft. The proposed LIDAR will enhance air traffic safety.