Abstract

A new optical system with a 1.5-m diam telescope was designed and constructed in the CRL. The distinctive feature of the new telescope system is its flexibility as well as its capability for fast and accurate tracking. The system is flexible, that is, applicable to multiple studies. These are (1) satellite tracking (including geostationary satellites), (2) space optical communication, (3) laser ranging, (4) astronomy (IR/ visible), (5) laser radar, and (6) radiometry (remote sensing of planetary atmospheres). There are many foci, i.e., Nasmith (two), bent-Cassegrain (two), Cassegrain (usually not used due to tertiary mirror installation), and coude (instrument selection is avail able in four directions). Azimuth/elevation encoder resolution is 0.0001° and fast tracking (up to Az 15°/sec, El 5°/sec) is possible. The subsystems which have been integrated include a high sensitivity CCD camera and an image intensification tube camera for spacecraft tracking, point- ahead/fine-tracking assembly for space optical communication, 110-mJ/70-ps Nd:YAG laser for satellite ranging, 124 × 124 element IR camera and FT spectrometer for astronomy, and several CO₂ and isotope lasers as well as heterodyne receiver for lidar and radiometer.

© 1989 Optical Society of America