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 or use 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 transmittersuitable for 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 isproposed. The transmitter will be capable of electronically accessing any wavelength of interest and of scanning among wavelengths at a user adjustable rate. Phase I focuses on key technology demonstrations. In Phase II we will build and deliver afrequency-agile, 5 W output power transmitter."