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Orbiting and In-Situ Lidars for Earth and Planetary Applications.
Anthony W Yu1, Elisavet Troupaki1, Steven X Li1
1Lasers & Electro-Optics Branch, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD 20771 USA.
IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing
|November 22, 2021
Summary
NASA Goddard researchers are advancing spaceborne lidar technology using diode-pumped solid-state lasers. Recent progress focuses on laser spectroscopy, communications, and interferometry systems for future space science missions.
Area of Science:
- Space Science and Technology
- Optical Engineering
Background:
- NASA Goddard Space Flight Center has a history of developing spaceborne lidar instruments.
- Previous missions utilized mature diode-pumped solid-state laser transmitters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss recent experimental progress in advanced laser technologies.
- To present instrument prototypes for ongoing space science development.
Main Methods:
- Development of advanced laser technologies.
- Design and prototyping of lidar instruments for space applications.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated experimental progress in advanced laser systems.
- Developed instrument prototypes for laser spectroscopy, communications, and interferometry.
Conclusions:
- Continued advancement of spaceborne lidar technology at NASA Goddard.
- Prototypes are ready for ongoing development and future space science missions.
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