Open-Path, Self-Calibrating Cavity Ringdown System for Multi-Wavelength Optical Extinction Measurements

In this Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) program, Nikira Labs Inc. proposes to develop an open-path, self-calibrating cavity ringdown system (CRDS) that can measure optical extinction at multiple visible and near-infrared wavelengths. The resulting instrument will supplant existing, scattering-based visibility sensors, and be used by the Navy for directed energy weapons (DEWs) and free-space communications applications.In Phase I, Nikira Labs will fabricate an open-path CRDS that includes three parallel, high-finesse optical cavities operating at 520 nm, 850 nm, and 1.06 microns. The instrument will utilize fiber-coupled lasers, avalanche photodiodes, and associated electronics for data control, acquisition, and reporting. The fully-functional prototype will be extensively laboratory tested to determine it analytical performance by measuring Rayleigh scattering, molecular absorption, and generated aerosol flows. Subsequent to these tests, the Phase I instrument will be field-deployed with a collocated visibility sensor to empirically gauge its robustness and technical feasibility for Naval applications. During the Phase I Option period, Nikira Labs will design three comprehensive Phase II systems for terrestrial, shipboard, and airborne monitoring.