Ultra-Compact Laser for Space-Based Cloud & Aerosol LIDAR

Fibertek proposes to develop a high efficiency, ultra-compact master oscillator/power amplifier (UCMOPA) for use in the next generation of space-based cloud and aerosol lidar systems. The Phase I goal is a laser optics module design that is lt;nbsp;1/7 the volume and weight and is 75% more efficient than the original CALIPSO laser transmitter. This increased efficiency reduces the power required for the same outputs as CALIPSO by 40%. For both systems there is a separate electronics module. We anticipate a similar reduction in the size of the electronics module in Phase II, but that will not be part of the Phase I studies. The proposed system would support a backscatter lidar system, one the four primary instrument types identified as relevant to the S1.01 Lidar and Remote Sensing topic in the 2019 Phase I SBIR call. A summary of key features that will be incorporated into the proposed laser module are given below.An ultra-compact master oscillator/preamplifier design that can generate gt; 100 mJ/pulse, near single-frequency output.Use of a passive Q-switch in the compact ring oscillator to achieve near single-frequency operation.A compact, high efficiency gain head for use in the final power amplifier that incorporates an off-axis design to improve the fill factor and efficiency. The power amplifier will be capable of generating gt; 250 mJ/pulse with 100nbsp;mJ/pulse input.Full conductive cooling and opto-mechanical packaging that is compatible with a space-based mission.nbsp;