Tandem OPO for Mid-IR DIAL

We propose to develop an infrared source for differential absorption lidar (DIAL) sensing of chemicals in the atmosphere. the source will be based on the use of optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) and will generate wavelengths in the 2-9 micron region of the infrared spectrum. Our source will employ a 1-micron pump laser and two OPOs, one for short-wavelength generation and the other, pumped by the short-wavelength OPO, for long-wavelength generation. The tandem OPO design allows us to utilize our chosen nonlinear materials in their most optimal configuration. The Phase I program will consist of construction of the pump laser and design, construction and testing of the two OPOs. The experimental data will test our understanding of the characteristics of the OPOs and provide a basis for future development in a Phase II effort. In Phase I we will also consider the choice of a chemical or chemicals to be sensed in a ground- based demonstration program that makes use of our tandem OPO source.