KEYWORDS: Semiconductor lasers, LIDAR, Transmitters, Frequency modulation, Fermium, Ranging, Modulation, Signal processing, Collimators, Signal generators
The purpose of this paper is to present the prototype of the laser diode transmitter for the laser radar based on
frequency-modulated (FM) ranging principles. It belongs to the time-of-flight measurement category. In this case, the
time-of-flight is converted to a beat frequency proportional to the range to be measured. This conversion is realized with
intensity modulation of the laser power by a linear FM continuous wave. FM ranging theory and the principle of
operation are described to show the application of FM radar principles in laser radar. The design of laser diode
illuminator and the key techniques in the transmitter are discussed, including the generation technique of the wideband
radio-frequency (RF) chirp signal, design of the transmitter module and the laser beam collimation optics. The possible
factors that may limit the performance the laser radar system are discussed.
The purpose of this paper is to introduce the application of scannerless range imaging (SRI) laser radar in the dynamic
and real-time surveillance for cooperative and uncooperative space objects. Scannerless range imaging technique enables
the capture of a full scene 3D range image in one acquisition with faster image acquisition speed. Small size, lighter
weight, reduced mechanically complex and faster acquisition speed make it more fit for space borne scenario. Laser
radar is based on frequency-modulated (FM) ranging principle that belongs to the time-of-flight (TOF) measurement
category. In this case, the time-of-flight is converted to a beat frequency proportional to the range to be measured. This
conversion is realized with intensity modulation of the laser power by a linear FM continuous wave. A summary of FM
ranging theory and its application in range imaging are introduced. The system architecture and theory of operation are
described. The key technologies of this type of scannerless range imaging laser radar in the application of surveillance
for space objects are discussed.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.