This paper has discussed the evolution of lidar systems for Earth observations. Measurements of aerosols, O3, and H2O made with the NASA LaRC airborne DIAL system were presented as examples of the types of data that could be obtained from a spaceborne lidar system. An autonomous DIAL system under development by NASA for the high-altitude ER-2 aircraft was described. Future spaceborne lidar systems, LITE and LASA, were discussed, as well as the requirements for future spaceborne laser systems. It is clear that the successful development of spaceborne lidar systems depends critically on solving the laser technology challenges of improved laser efficiency and long lifetimes. Adequate power and narrow linewidth with tunability are also necessary for the full utilization of the laser's capability. New thrusts to improve optical detector sensitivity and quantum efficiency can be helpful by reducing power requirements. However, new technology developments must emerge for lidar to fulfill its vast potential. New research thrusts in solid-state laser pumping and solid-state, tunable, efficient, lasing materials are being made by NASA to open these space application frontiers within the next decade.
Lasers and optoelectronics for earth observation
Laser und Optoelektronik fuer die Erdbeobachtung
1985
14 Seiten, 5 Bilder, 6 Tabellen, 18 Quellen
Conference paper
English
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