Photon counting detector package based on InGaAs/InP avalanche structure for laser ranging applications.

Area of Science:

• Geodesy
• Optical Engineering
• Photonics

Background:

• Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) traditionally uses the second harmonic of Nd:YAG lasers.
• Silicon detectors offer high performance but are limited to specific wavelengths.
• The fundamental wavelength of Nd:YAG lasers presents a better energy budget but lacked suitable detectors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of using the fundamental wavelength for SLR measurements.
• To develop and test a single photon detector package for SLR at 1064 nm.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a single photon detector package utilizing InGaAs/InP avalanche diodes.
• Testing the detector's performance for Satellite Laser Ranging applications.
• Evaluating photon detection probability and timing resolution.

Main Results:

• InGaAs/InP single photon avalanche diodes are now feasible for SLR.
• These detectors exhibit high photon detection probability and acceptable timing resolution.
• The developed detector package is optimized for SLR measurements at the fundamental wavelength.

Conclusions:

• SLR measurements at the fundamental wavelength (1064 nm) are now possible.
• The new detector technology enhances the energy budget for SLR.
• This enables more efficient and potentially more precise satellite distance measurements.