Agile-Pulse Dual-Mode High-Power Eyesafe Doppler Lidar

CTI has demonstrated helicopter signature detection using both long and short pulse lidars. A long-pulse lidar is optimal for sensing increases in spectral width, however this signature is susceptible to wind turbulence and shear clutter. Short pulselidars are optimal for inflow-signature detection, however they require much longer update times. To satisfy these two competing effects, CTI proposes to develop a novel agile-pulse dual-mode coherent lidar. In the turbulence-detection mode, the scanrate of this compact 5 W lidar will exceed 90 degrees in 15 sec, while providing 5 m cross range resolution at 5 km. CTI will leverage its experience in the field of wake-vortex detection and tracking to develop advanced algorithms for the reduction ofclutter-induced false alarms. Inflow-signature detection will be accomplished using a short-pulse. Here, update rates less than 10 seconds per LOS are expected. In both modes, a velocity precision better than 20 cm/s at ranges in excess of 5 km isexpected. In Phase I CTI will develop, test and refine advanced clutter rejection algorithms utilizing previously and newly acquired data sets and develop a preliminary lidar design. In Phase II CTI will develop, test, and demonstrate the prototypesensor and implement the advanced clutter-rejection algorithms in CTI's real-time signal processor.The proposed Phase I/II program will result in the development of a compact, agile-pulse, efficient, high power eyesafe coherent lidar. This technology willhave application in many military as well as commercial settings. Potential commercial applications include clear-air-turbulence detection, general aviation wind shear detection, airport wind surveillance, and environmental monitoring. Militaryapplications include helicopter signature detection and correction for precision airdrop and ballistics weapon systems.