Abstract

Current optics research and development at Rockwell Power Systems is described. Gradient index optical rods are being explored for use in compact, rugged imaging and transfer systems. Experiments and theoretical analyses are addressing the feasibility of fiber-coupled, long-baseline optical interferometers. Imaging-related efforts include an optical smoother for partial removal of amplitude fluctuations in holographic-type atmosphere distortion correction; techniques for producing passive generalized-Hough-transform filters for shape detection; development of interferometric filters for reducing scattered light noise in astronomical telescopes; and a laboratory demonstration of real-time correction of effects of a thin phase distorter for an object illuminated with natural light. A unique imaging radiometric pyrometer is being developed for measuring as a function of time the spatial distribution of temperatures over a hot surface. Blackbody radiation of the surface is imaged and transmitted by means of optical fibers. The design and construction of diode-pumped solid state lasers includes Nd:YLF, Nd:YAB, and Tm:YALO. End pumping is used for efficiency and side pumping is used for high power. An in-house ability to mount laser-diode bars to microchannel coolers is being developed.

© 1992 Optical Society of America