Abstract

Eyesafe operation is desirable when lidar systems are used in programs in which personnel can be in the path of the laser beam. This is of particular importance in scanning systems, or in systems that are designed for automated, unattended operation. In practice, in order to be eyesafe at short ranges from the transmitter and still maintain a reasonable pulse energy output, the source wavelength must be shorter than 400 nm or longer than 1.4 μm [1]. With the exception of long wavelength CO₂ systems, commonly used lidar systems are not eyesafe and require stringent precautions for safe operation. Since these CO₂ systems have several disadvantages, including reduced detector/preamp performance at 10 μm and the need for cryogenically cooled detectors, there is a need for a short wavelength lidar that is capable of eyesafe operation. Interest in the properties of the atmosphere at near infrared wavelengths and recent developments in detectors have made the concept of an eyesafe system in the range of 1.4 to 1.8 μm an attractive option.

© 1990 Optical Society of America