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A New GaAs Laser Radar for Atmospheric MeasurementsA special GaAs lidar using fiber coupled diode lasers was constructed for the purpose of measuring the extinction coefficient distribution within a large atmospheric volume at a rate compatible with atmospheric kinematics. The technique is based on taking backscatter signature ratios over spatial increments after the returns are normalized by pulse integration. Essential aspects of the lidar design are beam pulse power, repetition rate, detection system dynamic range and decay linearity. It was necessary to preclude the possibility of eye hazard under any operating conditions, including directly viewing the emitting aperture at close distance with a night-adapted eye. The electronic signal processing and control circuits were built to allow versatile operations. Extinction coefficient measurements were made in fog and clouds using a low-power laboratory version of the lidar, demonstrating feasibility. Data are presented showing range squared corrected backscatter profiles converted to extinction coefficient profiles, temporal signal fluctuations, and solar induced background noise. These results aided in the design of the lidar which is described. Functional tests of this lidar and the implications relevant to the design of a prototype model are discussed. This work was jointly sponsored by Sperry Rand Corporation under its Independent Research and Development program; the Air Force Avionics Laboratory, Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio; and the Naval Ammunition Depot, Crane, Indiana.
Document ID
20160007578
Acquisition Source
Langley Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Brown, R. T. (Sperry Research Center Sudbury, MA, United States)
Stoliar, A. P. (Sperry Gyroscope Co. Great Neck, NY, United States)
Date Acquired
June 15, 2016
Publication Date
June 4, 1973
Publication Information
Publication: Fifth Conference on Laser Radar Studies of the Atmosphere, June 4-6, 1973, Hilton Inn, Williamsburg, Virginia: Conference Abstracts
Subject Category
Meteorology And Climatology
Earth Resources And Remote Sensing
Meeting Information
Meeting: Conference on Laser Radar Studies of the Atmosphere
Location: Williamsburg, VA
Country: United States
Start Date: June 4, 1973
End Date: June 6, 1973
Sponsors: Optical Society of America, American Meteorological Society, NASA Langley Research Center
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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IDRelationTitle20150022260Collected WorksFifth Conference on Laser Radar Studies of the Atmosphere, June 4-6, 1973, Hilton Inn, Williamsburg, Virginia: Conference Abstracts
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