The constraints of operation in space have largely precluded the use of conventional solid-state laser systems for applications including remote sensing, communication relays, and active laser radars. A new technology, fiber lasers, may offer all of the needed features at an affordable price. An appealing aspect of the fiber laser is that it does not need a rigid optical bench. Only the output end of the fiber need be held in rigid reference to the optical tracking system. Design, fabrication, and testing of the laser resonator is generally the most expensive and longest lead part of the effort for conventional solid-state lasers. Advances in Fiber Optic technology and devices mean that the "fiber laser" need not be a simple device but may be a complex system employing sophisticated technology such as wavelength selective Bragg reflectors and nonlinear optical frequency shifters. Three companies have recently obtained single-mode outputs of 3540 watts single mode at 1.03-1.1 microns.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Fiber lasers: A future space technology [same article as "Fiber lasers: A future technology for lasers in space", ibid, vol. 23, n. 4, pp. 25-30, 08]


    Contributors:


    Publication date :

    2008-08-01


    Size :

    4401210 byte




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



    Fiber Lasers: A Future Space Technology

    McMahon, J.M. | Online Contents | 2008



    Fiber Lasers: A Future Technology for Lasers in Space

    McMahon, J.J. | Online Contents | 2008


    Fiber Lasers, a Future Technology for Lasers in Space

    McMahon, J. / IEEE; Aerospace and Electronics Systems Society | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1998