The primary focus for the space-qualifiable laser we are proposing to build is as an upgrade to the laser used in the NASA Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology system. Other NASA lidar systems that would be positively impacted by the successful completion of the Phase 2 effort are listed below: 1.Next generation cloud, aerosol, and ocean lidar systems based on High Spectral Resolution Lidar systems. 2.Ozone measurement lidar systems. The improved efficiency and reduced size oscillator and diode pumped heads for both the oscillator and amplifiers could be used to upgrade current ozone DIAL systems. 3.Direct detection wind measurement systems. The higher efficiency diode-pumped heads could be used to improve the efficiency and thus reduce the weight of current direct detection wind lidar systems.
There is a significant commercial interest in the high efficiency, compact laser being proposed. The applications include the following: 1.As an upgrade to the Ball Aerospace Vision Navigation Sensor (VNS). 2.As the transmitter for compact rangefinders that are being developed for commercial satellite servicing systems. 3.Laser marker/designator competition to Arete.
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