Robotic Laser Coating Removal System

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-07-01

Materiel Command IRR Internal Rate of Return JTP Joint Test Protocol JTR Joint Test Report LARPS Large Area Robotic Paint Stripping LASER Light...use of laser paint stripping systems is applicable to depainting activities on large off-aircraft components and weapons systems for the Air Force...The use of laser paint stripping systems is applicable to depainting activities on large off-aircraft components and weapons systems for the Air

History of Laser Weapon Research

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

designed to damage, disable, or destroy targets with little or no collateral damage. Airborne Laser (ABL) (CO2) Chemical Oxygen The ABL C-130H aircraft ...mirrors. Weapons systems based on lasers and “ray guns,” long a staple of science fiction, have captured the imagination of people everywhere. But...waves (millimeters to centimeters), with wavelengths 10,000 times longer than lasers. Diffraction of any electromagnetic radia- tion beam is based

The Navy's high-energy laser weapon system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cook, Joung R.; Albertine, John R.

1997-05-01

Over the past 25 years, in an attempt to develop a speed-of- light hard-kill weapon system, the U.S. Navy has successfully reduced megawatt-class chemical laser and high power beam control technologies to engineering practice. This Navy program was established during the cold war era when defending naval battle group was the primary concern of the U.S. Navy. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, however, an urgent and challenging issue facing the U.S. Navy is the self-defense against cruise missile in a littoral battlefield environment against threats originating from shore and/or scattered low- value platforms. This fundamental shift in the battlefield environment and engagement configuration profoundly affected the basic performance requirements placed on potential shipboard high energy laser weapon systems (HELWS). In a littoral maritime environment, thermal blooming limits atmospheric propagation of an HEL beam, and thus limits the weapon's effectiveness. This paper identifies and discusses the technical issues associated with HELWS requirements in this new environment. It also discuses the collateral capabilities that enhance and complement the performance of other weapon and sensor systems onboard ship. This paper concludes that the HELWS using a free electron laser (FEL) offers a unique weapon option for our warships in facing the new defense challenges of the future.

Beam-guidance optics for high-power fiber laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohring, Bernd; Tassini, Leonardo; Protz, Rudolf; Zoz, Jürgen

2013-05-01

The realization of a high-energy laser weapon system by coupling a large number of industrial high-power fiber lasers is investigated. To perform the combination of the individual beams of the different fiber lasers within the optical path of the laser weapon, a special optical set-up is used. Each optical component is realized either as reflective component oras refractive optics. Both possibilities were investigated by simulations and experiments. From the results, the general aspects for the layout of the beam-guidance optics for a high-power fiber laser system are derived.

Leading Edge. Volume 7, Issue Number 4, 2012

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

system . The electric field emitted from the throat of this system was so high that a special bag of high- voltage gas was needed until the radiating...and the Sea-Lite beam director. By 1990, this building-sized system demonstrated shooting boosters, missiles in flight, and superson - ic vehicles...only success- ful laser weapon system developed by the Navy prior to the Navy Laser Weapon System (LaWS).3 Gas Lasers Gas lasers are a type of

Nuclear pumped lasers: Advantages of O2 (1 delta)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, J. J.

1979-01-01

Nuclear pumped laser technology was evaluated as a possible future weapons contender. It was determined that in order to become a primary weapon the following engineering problems must be solved: shielding, heat dissipation, high efficiency fixed focus pumping, good beam quality, and thermal blooming.

Spatial Distribution of the Threshold Beam Spots of Laser Weapons Simulators

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-09-08

This paper was based on the transmission theory of elliptical Gaussian beam fluxes in deriving some transmission equations for the threshold beam...spots of laser weapon simulators, in order to revise and expand the expressions for the threshold beam spots, their maximum range, the extinction

U.S. Navy Program Guide 2017

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-01

LRASM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Paveway II Laser-Guided Bomb (LGB) / Dual-Mode LGB (GBU-10/12/16) and Paveway III (GBU-24) LGB . . 26...system (INS) guidance kit to improve the precision of existing 500-pound, 1,000-pound, and 2,000-pound general-purpose and penetrator bombs in all...pound dual-mode weapon that couples the GPS/INS precision of the JDAM and laser-des- ignated accuracy of the laser-guided bomb into a single weapon

The magic of relay mirrors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duff, Edward A.; Washburn, Donald C.

2004-09-01

Laser weapon systems would be significantly enhanced with the addition of high altitude or space-borne relay mirrors. Such mirrors, operating alone with a directed energy source, or many in a series fashion, can be shown to effectively move the laser source to the last, so-called fighting mirror. This "magically" reduces the range to target and offers to enhance the performance of directed energy systems like the Airborne Laser and even ground-based or ship-based lasers. Recent development of high altitude airships will be shown to provide stationary positions for such relay mirrors thereby enabling many new and important applications for laser weapons. The technical challenges to achieve this capability are discussed.

Another weapon too far: the anti-personnel laser.

PubMed

Gillow, J T

1995-06-01

The last decade has seen the development of military lasers designed to blind. Medical professionals dedicated to the prevention and treatment of visual disability, and particularly ophthalmologists under the terms of their newly acquired Royal Charter, have a responsibility to: document this new technology; explain its medical effects; and influence the threshold at which these weapons might be used. Proposals to prohibit anti-eye laser warfare at The United Nations Convention Conference in September 1995 present a unique opportunity to stigmatize blinding as a method of warfare.

A review of the development of optical countermeasures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Titterton, David H.

2004-12-01

Optical countermeasures have been used for several millenia to provide a defensive capability capability. The fundamental approach is to use an intense optical source to dazzle a sensor or distract an operator or target tracking system causing a weapon to miss its intended target. The development of the laser has provided a stimulus for anumber of soft-kill weapon systems used to enhance platform survivability and anti-air missile applications; in this case the laser may cause dazzle, or if the beam is sufficiently intense it may cause damage. Laser technology is also crucial for an aspect of directed energy weapons. The various aspects of optical countermeasures are considered in this paper, including defeat mechanisms of active and passive techniques. The review includes a historical perspective through to prospects for the future.

Measurement of Laser Weld Temperatures for 3D Model Input

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dagel, Daryl; Grossetete, Grant; Maccallum, Danny O.

Laser welding is a key joining process used extensively in the manufacture and assembly of critical components for several weapons systems. Sandia National Laboratories advances the understanding of the laser welding process through coupled experimentation and modeling. This report summarizes the experimental portion of the research program, which focused on measuring temperatures and thermal history of laser welds on steel plates. To increase confidence in measurement accuracy, researchers utilized multiple complementary techniques to acquire temperatures during laser welding. This data serves as input to and validation of 3D laser welding models aimed at predicting microstructure and the formation of defectsmore » and their impact on weld-joint reliability, a crucial step in rapid prototyping of weapons components.« less

The study of laser beam riding guided system based on 980nm diode laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Zhou; Xu, Haifeng; Sui, Xin; Yang, Kun

2015-10-01

With the development of science and technology, precision-strike weapons has been considered to be important for winning victory in military field. Laser guidance is a major method to execute precision-strike in modern warfare. At present, the problems of primary stage of Laser guidance has been solved with endeavors of countries. Several technical aspects of laser-beam riding guided system have been mature, such as atmosphere penetration of laser beam, clutter inhibition on ground, laser irradiator, encoding and decoding of laser beam. Further, laser beam quality, equal output power and atmospheric transmission properties are qualified for warfare situation. Riding guidance instrument is a crucial element of Laser-beam riding guided system, and is also a vital element of airborne, vehicle-mounted and individual weapon. The optical system mainly consist of sighting module and laser-beam guided module. Photoelectric detector is the most important sensing device of seeker, and also the key to acquire the coordinate information of target space. Currently, in consideration of the 1.06 u m of wavelength applied in all the semi-active laser guided weapons systems, lithium drifting silicon photodiode which is sensitive to 1.06 u m of wavelength is used in photoelectric detector. Compared to Solid and gas laser, diode laser has many merits such as small volume, simple construction, light weight, long life, low lost and easy modulation. This article introduced the composition and operating principle of Laser-beam riding guided system based on 980 nm diode laser, and made a analysis of key technology; for instance, laser irradiator, modulating disk of component, laser zooming system. Through the use of laser diode, Laser-beam riding guided system is likely to have smaller shape and very light.

Laser beam riding guided system principle and design research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Zhou; Jin, Yi; Xu, Zhou; Xing, Hao

2016-01-01

With the development of science and technology, precision-strike weapons has been considered to be important for winning victory in military field. Laser guidance is a major method to execute precision-strike in modern warfare. At present, the problems of primary stage of Laser guidance has been solved with endeavors of countries. Several technical aspects of laser-beam riding guided system have been mature, such as atmosphere penetration of laser beam, clutter inhibition on ground, laser irradiator, encoding and decoding of laser beam. Further, laser beam quality, equal output power and atmospheric transmission properties are qualified for warfare situation. Riding guidance instrument is a crucial element of Laser-beam riding guided system, and is also a vital element of airborne, vehicle-mounted and individual weapon. The optical system mainly consist of sighting module and laser-beam guided module. Photoelectric detector is the most important sensing device of seeker, and also the key to acquire the coordinate information of target space. Currently, in consideration of the 1.06 u m of wavelength applied in all the semi-active laser guided weapons systems, lithium drifting silicon photodiode which is sensitive to 1.06 u m of wavelength is used in photoelectric detector. Compared to Solid and gas laser, diode laser has many merits such as small volume, simple construction, light weight, long life, low lost and easy modulation. This article introduced the composition and operating principle of Laser-beam riding guided system based on 980 nm diode laser, and made a analysis of key technology; for instance, laser irradiator, modulating disk of component, laser zooming system. Through the use of laser diode, Laser-beam riding guided system is likely to have smaller shape and very light.

Design of diode-pumped solid-state laser applied in laser fuses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, FangLin; Zhang, YiFei

2005-04-01

The function of laser fuzes which are parts of certain weapon systems is to control the blasting height of warheads. Commonly the battle environment these weapon systems are confronted with is very complicated and the tactical demand for them is very rigor, so laser fuzes equipped for them must fulfill some special technical requirements, such as high repetition rate, long ranging scope, etc. Lasers are one of key components which constitute fuze systems. Whether designed lasers are advanced and reasonable will determine whether laser fuzes can be applied in these weapon systems or not. So we adopt the novel technology of diode-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) to design lasers applied in fuzes. Nd:YVO4 crystal is accepted as gain material, which has wide absorption band and large absorption efficient for 808nm pumping laser. As warhead's temperature is usually very high, wider absorption band is beneficial to reduce the influence of temperature fluctuation. Passive Q-switching with Cr4+:YAG is used to reduce the power consumption farthest. Design the end-pumped microchip sandwich-architecture to decrease lasers' size and increase the reliability, further it's advantageous to produce short pulses and increase peak power of lasers. The designed DPSSL features small size and weight, high repetition rate and peak power, robustness, etc. The repetition rate is expected to reach 1 kHz; peak power will exceed 300 kW; pulse width is only 5 ns; and divergence angle of laser beams is less than 5 mrad. So DPSSL is suitable for laser fuzes as an emitter.

High-energy laser activities at MBDA Germany

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohring, Bernd; Dietrich, Stephan; Tassini, Leonardo; Protz, Rudolf; Geidek, Franz; Zoz, Jürgen

2013-05-01

At MBDA Germany a concept for a high-energy laser weapon system is investigated, which is based on existing industrial laser sources. Due to the enormous progress in the field of high-power fiber lasers, commercial industrial fiber lasers are now available delivering a nearly-diffraction limited beam quality with power levels of up to 10 kW. By using a geometric beam coupling scheme, a number of individual high-power fiber laser beams are combined together using one common beam director telescope. A total laser beam power of more than 100 kW can be achieved, which is sufficient for an operational laser weapon system. The individual beams from the different lasers are steered by servo-loops using fast tip-tilt mirrors. This principle enables the concentration of the total laser beam power at one common focal point on a distant target, also allowing fine tracking of target movements and first-order compensation of turbulence effects on laser beam propagation. The proposed beam combination concept was demonstrated by using different experimental set-ups. A number of experiments were performed successfully to investigate laser beam target interaction and target fine tracking, also at large distances and at moving targets. Content and results of these investigations are reported, which demonstrate the complete engagement sequence for a C-RAM scenario. This includes subsequent steps of target acquisition by radar and IR optics, followed by large angle coarse tracking, active fine tracking and destruction of the target by the laser system. This successful implementation of geometric beam combining is an important step for the realization of a laser weapon system in the near future.

Another weapon too far: the anti-personnel laser.

PubMed Central

Gillow, J T

1995-01-01

The last decade has seen the development of military lasers designed to blind. Medical professionals dedicated to the prevention and treatment of visual disability, and particularly ophthalmologists under the terms of their newly acquired Royal Charter, have a responsibility to: document this new technology; explain its medical effects; and influence the threshold at which these weapons might be used. Proposals to prohibit anti-eye laser warfare at The United Nations Convention Conference in September 1995 present a unique opportunity to stigmatize blinding as a method of warfare. PMID:7629769

Eye injuries from laser exposure: a review.

PubMed

Hudson, S J

1998-05-01

Lasers pose a significant threat to vision in modern military operations. Anti-personnel lasers have been designed that can cause intentional blindness in large numbers of personnel. Although the use of blinding laser weapons during combat has been prohibited by international legislation, research and development of these weapons have not been prohibited, and significant controversy remains. Unintentional blinding can also result from other types of lasers used on the battlefield, such as range-finders and anti-material lasers. Lasers that are capable of producing blindness operate within specific wavelength parameters and include visible and near infrared lasers. Patients who suffer from laser eye injuries usually complain of flash blindness, followed by transient or permanent visual loss. Laser retinal damage should be suspected in any patient with visual complaints in an operational setting. The treatment for laser retinal injuries is extremely limited, and prevention is essential. Improved protective eyeware and other countermeasures to laser eye injury are necessary as long as the threat remains.

Analysis and studies on the threats to the composite material from laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Wei; Yao, Weixing; Wang, Liwei; Wang, Guoliang; Xie, Fang

2015-10-01

It is always an attracting research field for the interaction between laser and matters. The interaction between laser and matters is used not only in the natural science, but also in practical application, for example, laser machine, laser weapon, laser ablations and so on. In this paper, we will give the model for the damage effect of the composite materials caused by the superpower laser weapons. Mechanism of the laser damage on the composite materials have been researched and modeled by the numerical analysis methods. Through the designed model, we analyzed the temperature and the stress fields of the composite material after the superpower lasers attacks with different power densities. By analyzing these modeling results, we achieved some conclusions on the threats to the composite materials from the superpower lasers. From the results, we have obtained the Irradiated threshold from the Laser. This paper will provide the theoretical foundations for the anti-laser design of the composite materials.

Navy Lasers, Railgun, and Hypervelocity Projectile: Background and Issues for Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-10-21

surface ships to defend themselves against enemy missiles—solid state lasers (SSLs), the electromagnetic railgun (EMRG), and the hypervelocity...SSLs), the electromagnetic railgun (EMRG), and the hypervelocity projectile (HVP). 1 Any one of these new weapon technologies, if successfully...Integrated Mount For Electromagnetic Railgun,” Inside the Navy, July 31, 2015.) 12 Sources for cost of HVP: David Martin, “Navy’s Newest Weapon Kills at

The Basics of Electric Weapons and Pulsed-Power Technologies

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

launchers. DEWs send energy, instead of matter, toward a target, and can be separated into three types: laser weapons, particle -beam weapons, and high...beam’s energy de- position, target material, and flight dynamics is needed. Particle Beams A particle -beam weapon is a directed flow of atomic or sub...atomic particles . These parti- cles can be neutral or electrically charged. Neutral beams need to be used outside the atmosphere (in space), where

Application and the key technology on high power fiber-optic laser in laser weapon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Zhou; Li, Qiushi; Meng, Haihong; Sui, Xin; Zhang, Hongtao; Zhai, Xuhua

2014-12-01

The soft-killing laser weapon plays an important role in photoelectric defense technology. It can be used for photoelectric detection, search, blinding of photoelectric sensor and other devices on fire control and guidance devices, therefore it draws more and more attentions by many scholars. High power fiber-optic laser has many virtues such as small volume, simple structure, nimble handling, high efficiency, qualified light beam, easy thermal management, leading to blinding. Consequently, it may be used as the key device of soft-killing laser weapon. The present study introduced the development of high power fiber-optic laser and its main features. Meanwhile the key technology of large mode area (LMA) optical fiber design, the beam combination technology, double-clad fiber technology and pumping optical coupling technology was stated. The present study is aimed to design high doping LMA fiber, ensure single mode output by increasing core diameter and decrease NA. By means of reducing the spontaneous emission particle absorbed by fiber core and Increasing the power density in the optical fiber, the threshold power of nonlinear effect can increase, and the power of single fiber will be improved. Meantime, high power will be obtained by the beam combination technology. Application prospect of high power fiber laser in photoelectric defense technology was also set forth. Lastly, the present study explored the advantages of high power fiber laser in photoelectric defense technology.

United States Amphibious Forcible Entry: An Expensive Necessity

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-17

controversial, Navy EOD teams also operate Marine Mammal Systems (MMS) such as dolphins , sea lions and beluga whales for mine detection and...such as laser weapons, touted as a ―game-changer,‖ are also being researched to counter the anti-ship missile threat.49 As Till noted, ―Throughout...Reported in Navy Laser Weapon Technology,‖ PilotOnline, (Norfolk Virginian-Pilot), 21 January 2011, http://hamptonroads.com (accessed 29 January 2011

Warranties in Weapon System Procurement: An Analysis of Practice and Theory.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-04-01

MICROCOPY RESOLUTION TEST CHART NATIONAL BUREAU OF SIANDARDS 1963 A fD r ILE GW cm AD-A190 933 IDA PAPER P-2024 WARRANTIES IN WEAPON SYSTEM PROCUREMENT...EPWT Essential Performance Warranty Test FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation GCS Guidance Control Section GLD Ground Laser Locator Designator GS General...Service IDA Institute for Defense Analyses I&L Installations and Logistics IPT Initial Production Test LDR Laser Designator Rangefimder MLDT Mean

Development of an adaptive optics test-bed for relay mirror applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mansell, Justin D.; Jacobs, Arturo A.; Maynard, Morris

2005-08-01

The relay mirror concept involves deploying a passive optical station at a high altitude for relaying a beam from a laser weapon to a target. Relay mirrors have been proposed as a method of increasing the range of laser weapons that is less costly than deploying a larger number of laser weapons. Relay mirrors will only be effective if the beam spreading and beam quality degradation induced by atmospheric aberrations and thermal blooming can be mitigated. In this paper we present the first phase of a multi-year effort to develop a theoretical and experimental capability at Boeing-SVS to study these problems. A team from MZA and Boeing-SVS has developed a laboratory test-bed consisting of a distributed atmospheric path simulated by three liquid crystal phase screens, a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor, and a MEMS membrane deformable mirror. We present results of AO component calibration and evaluation, the system construction, and the system performance.

Test Operations Procedure (TOP) 3-2-045 Small Arms - Hand and Shoulder Weapons and Machine Guns

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-17

often referred to as “field strip and clean”). More detailed maintenance will be done as needed. All maintenance actions will be recorded. TOP...of weapon after complete disassembly. (3) Dismounting of the operating parts and magazine or feeder (field strip ). (4) Assembly of...optical or laser ) as necessary to check alignment to the target aiming point if the weapon is not equipped with sights. For weapons capable of

Research on simulation system with the wide range and high-precision laser energy characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Ke-yan; Lou, Yan; He, Jing-yi; Tong, Shou-feng; Jiang, Hui-lin

2012-10-01

The Hardware-in-the-loop(HWIL) simulation test is one of the important parts for the development and performance testing of semi-active laser-guided weapons. In order to obtain accurate results, the confidence level of the target environment should be provided for a high-seeker during the HWIL simulation test of semi-active laser-guided weapons, and one of the important simulation parameters is the laser energy characteristic. In this paper, based on the semi-active laser-guided weapon guidance principles, an important parameter of simulation of confidence which affects energy characteristics in performance test of HWIL simulation was analyzed. According to the principle of receiving the same energy by using HWIL simulation and in practical application, HWIL energy characteristics simulation systems with the crystal absorption structure was designed. And on this basis, the problems of optimal design of the optical system were also analyzed. The measured results show that the dynamic attenuation range of the system energy is greater than 50dB, the dynamic attenuation stability is less than 5%, and the maximum energy changing rate driven by the servo motor is greater than 20dB/s.

Worldwide Emerging Environmental Issues Affecting the U.S. Military. November 2006 Report

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-11-01

should follow this development for potential improved environmental biological weapons surveillance systems. Source: Researchers use laser...Protocol V on Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons came into force on 12 November 2006, almost three...potentials for nanotech weapons , create unique problems of proliferation, health effects, environmental impacts, and post-conflict cleanups that are

Finite element simulation of the mechanism of laser ultrasound induced pain weapon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Bo; Zhan, Ren Jun; Shan, Ning

2018-03-01

The Laser-Ultrasonic technique uses laser energy to generate ultrasound waves in various solids. In normal conditions, this technique is used to inspect large structures without destruction, but in military use, we hope get this destruction. Nociceptors in Human skin can feel cold, heat, mechanical and other stimuli, when the stimulus exceeds a certain threshold will produce pain. Based on this principle, a laser induced pain weapon may be made. The generated ultrasound wave form is affected by features of laser pulse. The results obtained from the finite element model of laser generated ultrasound are presented in terms of temperature and displacement. At first step, the transient temperature field can be precisely calculated by using the finite element method. Then, laser generated surface acoustic wave forms are calculated by coupling the temperature distribution. Displacement is used to represent the mechanical action of skin caused by laser ultrasound. Results from numerical simulation are compared with other references; the accuracy of the method is proved accordingly. The results of simulation in the given conditions demonstrate that the stresses generated by pulse laser in human skin model were about -8 and +4 MPa. According to the results of simulation, the max and min stress are both emerged in the range of 0 600 um, that is exactly the location of myelinated Aδ and unmyelinated C nociceptor. The value of stress is can be adjusted by chose suitable parameters of laser. The study provides a possibility for developing a new non-lethal weapon to control riots or crowd.

Naval Directed-Energy Weapons - No Longer a Future Weapon Concept

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

DE efforts. High-Energy Laser Weapons HEL weapon systems have been envisioned for a great many years, to include be- ing referred to as Martian “Heat...PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) 5d. PROJECT NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES... ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S ACRONYM(S) 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT NUMBER(S

Laser safety research and modeling for high-energy laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Peter A.; Montes de Oca, Cecilia I.; Kennedy, Paul K.; Keppler, Kenneth S.

2002-06-01

The Department of Defense has an increasing number of high-energy laser weapons programs with the potential to mature in the not too distant future. However, as laser systems with increasingly higher energies are developed, the difficulty of the laser safety problem increases proportionally, and presents unique safety challenges. The hazard distance for the direct beam can be in the order of thousands of miles, and radiation reflected from the target may also be hazardous over long distances. This paper details the Air Force Research Laboratory/Optical Radiation Branch (AFRL/HEDO) High-Energy Laser (HEL) safety program, which has been developed to support DOD HEL programs by providing critical capability and knowledge with respect to laser safety. The overall aim of the program is to develop and demonstrate technologies that permit safe testing, deployment and use of high-energy laser weapons. The program spans the range of applicable technologies, including evaluation of the biological effects of high-energy laser systems, development and validation of laser hazard assessment tools, and development of appropriate eye protection for those at risk.

High Frontier, The Journal for Space & Missile Professionals. Volume 5, Number 3

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-05-01

assume cyberspace responsibilities as directed by CORONA Fall. General Kehler has commanded at the squadron, group, and twice at the wing level, and has...October 2008 CORONA conference, the Air Force Space Command (AFSPC), in con- cert with Air Force Cyberspace Command (Provisional), is working diligently...which include electronic jamming equipment, computer viruses , directed-energy weapons, laser beam weapons, and non-directed-energy weapons

LDRD Final Report for''Tactical Laser Weapons for Defense'' SI (Tracking Code 01-SI-011)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Beach, R; Zapata, L

The focus of this project was a convincing demonstration of two new technological approaches to high beam quality; high average power solid-state laser systems that would be of interest for tactical laser weapon applications. Two pathways had been identified to such systems that built on existing thin disk and fiber laser technologies. This SI was used as seed funding to further develop and vet these ideas. Significantly, the LLNL specific enhancements to these proposed technology paths were specifically addressed for devising systems scaleable to the 100 kW average power level. In the course of performing this work we have establishedmore » an intellectual property base that protects and distinguishes us from other competitive approaches to the same end.« less

Ar-Xe Laser: The Path to a Robust, All-Electric Shipboard Directed Energy Weapon

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-18

Krypton Fluoride (KrF) laser for fusion energy and is sponsored by the Department of Energy’s (DOE) High Average Power Laser (HAPL) program. DOE...Electronics Conference, Arlington VA, October 2007. 9. “Electron Beam Pumped Lasers for Fusion Energy and Directed Energy Applications”, presented by

F-15E Beddown at Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-01

fuel tanks for extended range, an expanded weapons capacity, and LANTIRN for enhanced night operations. Procurement of 392 F-15Es is required to address...target recognizer. These capabilities permit the pilot of a single or dual seat aircraft to deliver guided and 1.1-i unguided weapons under day/night...functional subsystems. The targeting pod permits day or night precision delivery of conventional, laser guided bomb, and electro-optical weapons . The

Calculation of impulse laser rangefinders' utmost operating range with sensitivity in different weather

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yu-dan; Zhou, Bing; Ying, Jia-ju; Mao, Shao-juan; Qian, Xian-mei

2015-10-01

As one of the main weapons, impulse laser rangefinders have become the main object of the electro-optical countermeasures. So its real maximum range (defined as utmost operating range in the paper) becomes the most concerned index to evaluate the performance of electro-optical countermeasure weapons. A method for calculating laser rangefinders' utmost operating range by its sensitivity in different weather is obtained. Then a method by experiment for getting the sensitivity is supplied. By analyzing the experiment data which the detectivity is 40%-60%, the laser rangefinders' sensitivity is in the range of 1.7×10-5 W to 9.8×10-5 W. For the reason that in order to get an exact utmost operating range, the experiment accuracy of sensitivity is very important, in the last part of paper, the factors which influence the experiment accuracy of sensitivity are analyzed, such as circuit of automatic gain control, the fluctuation of laser power, incident angle of laser.

Recent developments and near term directions for Navy laser weapons system (LaWS) testbed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pawlak, Robert J.

2012-11-01

The Laser Weapons System (LaWS) testbed has been a demonstrator of many High Energy Laser (HEL)-related technologies for the Navy. LaWS employs a sharedaperture design with incoherent beam combining, and makes extensive use of Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) technologies in the areas of inertial sensing, fiber lasers, sensors, and video trackers. Since the system has demonstrated the art of the possible with COTS elements, it is useful to examine where performance can be increased with the greatest possible effect, as well as which modifications are necessary to support better integration with ships' systems. A review of past test events, architectures, and further plans will be provided, while emphasizing the past and future evolution of the LaWS system. These evolutions will relate within the context of technical drivers that most affected system development.

U.S. Army High Energy Laser (HEL) technology program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lavan, Michael J.; Wachs, John J.

2011-11-01

The US Army is investing in Solid State Laser (SSL) technology to assess counter rocket, artillery, and mortar (C-RAM) and counter unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) capabilities of solid state based HEL systems, as well as other potential applications for HELs of interest to the Army. The Army HEL program thrust areas are systematically moving the technology forward toward weaponization, including solid state laser technologies, advances in beam control technology, and conducting major demonstrations. The High Energy Laser Mobile Demonstrator (HELMD) will be a major step toward demonstrating HEL weapon capability to the soldier. The US Army will continue to pursue technologies that enable more compact systems compatible with, for example, a Stryker tactical vehicle as a crucial part of our strategy to provide a capability to the warfighter that can maneuver with the force.

Reduced Power Laser Designation Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-10

buffering of the input stage; comparing the noise performance of the candidate amplifier designs; selection of the two-transistor bootstrap design as the...circuit of choice; and comparing the performance of this circuit against that of a basic transconductance amplifier . 15. SUBJECT TERMS Laser...Guided Weapons; Laser designation; laser rangefinders; infrared photodiodes; transconductance amplifiers . 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: a. REPORT U

EAGLE: relay mirror technology development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartman, Mary; Restaino, Sergio R.; Baker, Jeffrey T.; Payne, Don M.; Bukley, Jerry W.

2002-06-01

EAGLE (Evolutionary Air & Space Global Laser Engagement) is the proposed high power weapon system with a high power laser source, a relay mirror constellation, and the necessary ground and communications links. The relay mirror itself will be a satellite composed of two optically-coupled telescopes/mirrors used to redirect laser energy from ground, air, or space based laser sources to distant points on the earth or space. The receiver telescope captures the incoming energy, relays it through an optical system that cleans up the beam, then a separate transmitter telescope/mirror redirects the laser energy at the desired target. Not only is it a key component in extending the range of DoD's current laser weapon systems, it also enables ancillary missions. Furthermore, if the vacuum of space is utilized, then the atmospheric effects on the laser beam propagation will be greatly attenuated. Finally, several critical technologies are being developed to make the EAGLE/Relay Mirror concept a reality, and the Relay Mirror Technology Development Program was set up to address them. This paper will discuss each critical technology, the current state of the work, and the future implications of this program.

The Viability of a Metamaterial Solution for the Defense of an Incident High-Energy Electromagnetic Beam

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-12-01

INTRODUCTION ............................................1 A. DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPONS ( DEW ) ......................1 B. FREE ELECTRON LASER (FEL...WEAPONS (C- DEW ) ............7 1. Navy Relevance ................................7 2. Problem Description ...........................7 II...invisibility cloaks from [9].................................18 Figure 7. Simple cubic lattice of points in co-coordinate system (left) maps into a

Test Operations Procedure (TOP) 07-2-033 Weaponized Manned/Unmanned Aircraft

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-14

Uncertainty Analysis ........................................................................... 24 6. PRESENTATION OF DATA...Testing. a. The purpose of testing is to confirm the predictions of engineering analysis , simulation, and subsystem tests. It is not to be... lunar illumination + 10 percent Laser hit point + 0.2 meter Sensor resolution target + 5 percent Weapon impact sequence High-speed

Research of laser stealth performance test technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Zhen-xing; Shi, Sheng-bing; Han, Fu-li; Wu, Yan-lin; Song, Chun-yan

2014-09-01

Laser stealth is an important way of photoelectric stealth weapons systems. According to operational principle of laser range finder, we actively explore and study the stealth performance approval testing technology of laser stealth materials, and bring forward and establish the stealth performance field test methods of stealth efficiency evaluation. Through contrastive test of two kinds of materials, the method is correct and effective.

Guidebook for preparation of aircraft-system survivability requirements for procurement documents. Final report, October 1975-October 1976

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morrow, J.J.; Burris, R.A.; Watson, D.J.

1977-05-01

This report is intended to provide guidelines for the preparation of procurements specifications for aircraft survivability enhancement equipment, for the survivability/vulnerability (S/V) tasks associated with the procurement of a total aircraft system or its relate subsystems, and also for the modification of current fleet aircraft to their related subsystems. It is intended that these S/V procurement guidelines be applied to the procurement of all military aircraft, aircraft subsystems, and aircraft componenets which can either lose their functional capability of have their performance degraded as a result of interactions with the damage mechanisms of threat weapons. The guidelines should be appliedmore » to preliminary design programs, to production programs, and to programs that will retrofit or modify existing systems. These guidelines include general requirements statements for the establishment of an S/V program, requirements statements for reducing the susceptibility of the system to the threat weapons, and requirements for the reduction of vulnerability to nonnuclear, nuclear, and laser weapon effects. Requirements for S/V assessments and the verification of vulnerability levels and survival enhancement features are also included. Although nuclear and laser weapon effects are included, the major emphasis is on the reduction of susceptibility and vulnerability to conventional weapons and the establishment of the S/V program.« less

Improving NATO’s Interoperability Through U.S. Precision Weapons

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-06-01

They must identify the target and manually fine-tune the laser designator onto the desired impact point . The challenge is keeping the laser designator...aimed at the appropriate impact point , especially while maneuvering the aircraft to avoid threats. Once the LGB is released, the laser seeker...originally configured for low altitude operations. Later in the war, the Tornado aircraft were re-equipped with their Thermal Imaging and Laser-Designating

Terahertz Imaging of Subjects With Concealed Weapons

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-05-01

pulsed imaging", Advanced Characterization, Therapeutics, and Systems XIV, Proceedings of SPIE, Vol. 5318: 23-33 6. Anthony E. Siegman , Lasers , p667...imagery. Both methods made use of in-house transceivers, consisting of two ultra-stable far-infrared lasers , terahertz heterodyne detection systems...SYSTEM The 1.56THz transceiver system at STL uses two carbon dioxide lasers paired individually with two far-infrared lasers . All four units are

An Integrated Rare Earth Elements Supply Chain Strategy

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-02-24

iron boron magnets in Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) smart bombs; neodymium-yttrium- aluminum - garnet lasers and range finders in multiple weapon...components Europium 63 computer screens, fluorescent lights Gadolinium 64 magnetic applications, phosphors Terbium 65 phosphors, projection TV’s...Defense Stockpile report advised several production delays of weapons systems were caused by lanthanum, cerium, europium and gadolinium supply

Analysis of laser energy characteristics of laser guided weapons based on the hardware-in-the-loop simulation system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yawen; Cui, Xiaohong; Wang, Qianqian; Tong, Qiujie; Cui, Xutai; Li, Chenyu; Zhang, Le; Peng, Zhong

2016-11-01

The hardware-in-the-loop simulation system, which provides a precise, controllable and repeatable test conditions, is an important part of the development of the semi-active laser (SAL) guided weapons. In this paper, laser energy chain characteristics were studied, which provides a theoretical foundation for the SAL guidance technology and the hardware-in-the-loop simulation system. Firstly, a simplified equation was proposed to adjust the radar equation according to the principles of the hardware-in-the-loop simulation system. Secondly, a theoretical model and calculation method were given about the energy chain characteristics based on the hardware-in-the-loop simulation system. We then studied the reflection characteristics of target and the distance between the missile and target with major factors such as the weather factors. Finally, the accuracy of modeling was verified by experiment as the values measured experimentally generally follow the theoretical results from the model. And experimental results revealed that ratio of attenuation of the laser energy exhibited a non-linear change vs. pulse number, which were in accord with the actual condition.

Directed Energy Weapon System for Ballistic Missile Defense

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-02-15

Scientific Assessment of High Power Free - Electron Laser Technology , “Introduction and Principle Findings,” available at: http://www.nap.edu/catalog...will lead to thermal blooming and will reduce the energy of light to the target. Scientific Assessment of High Power Free - Electron Laser Technology , pg

Miniature Munitions: Is The US Military Prepared to Support Major Combat Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

10 EVALUATION OF SMALL DIAMETER BOMB II AS THE ONLY WEAPON ...................... 11 CRITERION 1: MASS...Diameter Bomb (SDB) II, also known as the Guided Bomb Unit (GBU) 53/B, is the United States (US) Air Force’s newest standoff weapon to use miniature...against key Iraqi military infrastructure using precision laser and Global Positioning System (GPS) guided bombs . US and coalition ground forces

Annular resonators for high-power chemical lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wade, Richard C.

1993-08-01

Resonators capable of extracting highly coherent energy from DF and HF chemical laser annular gain media have been under investigation for weapon application since 1974. This survey article traces the background of interest in these devices, describes the various concepts that have been experimentally and analytically investigated, and discusses the issues associated with their operation. From the discussion of issues, preferred concepts are selected. Applicability of these concepts to high-power operation is addressed through discussions of past and ongoing high-power demonstration programs and the issues facing their application to weapon sized devices capable of strategic and tactical missions such as ballistic missile defense (BMD), theater missile defense (TMD), and anti satellite (ASAT).

Science and technology in the stockpile stewardship program, S & TR reprints

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Storm, E

This document reports on these topics: Computer Simulations in Support of National Security; Enhanced Surveillance of Aging Weapons; A New Precision Cutting Tool: The Femtosecond Laser; Superlasers as a Tool of Stockpile Stewardship; Nova Laser Experiments and Stockpile Stewardship; Transforming Explosive Art into Science; Better Flash Radiography Using the FXR; Preserving Nuclear Weapons Information; Site 300Õs New Contained Firing Facility; The Linear Electric Motor: Instability at 1,000 gÕs; A Powerful New Tool to Detect Clandestine Nuclear Tests; High Explosives in Stockpile Surveillance Indicate Constancy; Addressing a Cold War Legacy with a New Way to Produce TATB; JumpinÕ Jupiter! Metallic Hydrogen;more » Keeping the Nuclear Stockpile Safe, Secure, and Reliable; The Multibeam FabryÐPerot Velocimeter: Efficient Measurements of High Velocities; Theory and Modeling in Material Science; The Diamond Anvil Cell; Gamma-Ray Imaging Spectrometry; X-Ray Lasers and High-Density Plasma« less

Night firing range performance following photorefractive keratectomy and laser in situ keratomileusis.

PubMed

Bower, Kraig S; Burka, Jenna M; Subramanian, Prem S; Stutzman, Richard D; Mines, Michael J; Rabin, Jeff C

2006-06-01

To investigate the effect of laser refractive surgery on night weapons firing. Firing range performance was measured at baseline and postoperatively following photorefractive keratectomy and laser in situ keratomileusis. Subjects fired the M-16A2 rifle with night vision goggles (NVG) at starlight, and with iron sight (simulated dusk). Scores, before and after surgery, were compared for both conditions. No subject was able to acquire the target using iron sight without correction before surgery. After surgery, the scores without correction (95.9 +/- 4.7) matched the preoperative scores with correction (94.3 +/- 4.0; p = 0.324). Uncorrected NVG scores after surgery (96.4 +/- 3.1) exceeded the corrected scores before surgery (91.4 +/- 10.2), but this trend was not statistically significant (p = 0.063). Night weapon firing with both the iron sight and the NVG sight improved after surgery. This study supports the operational benefits of refractive surgery in the military.

Multidisciplinary model-based-engineering for laser weapon systems: recent progress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coy, Steve; Panthaki, Malcolm

2013-09-01

We are working to develop a comprehensive, integrated software framework and toolset to support model-based engineering (MBE) of laser weapons systems. MBE has been identified by the Office of the Director, Defense Science and Engineering as one of four potentially "game-changing" technologies that could bring about revolutionary advances across the entire DoD research and development and procurement cycle. To be effective, however, MBE requires robust underlying modeling and simulation technologies capable of modeling all the pertinent systems, subsystems, components, effects, and interactions at any level of fidelity that may be required in order to support crucial design decisions at any point in the system development lifecycle. Very often the greatest technical challenges are posed by systems involving interactions that cut across two or more distinct scientific or engineering domains; even in cases where there are excellent tools available for modeling each individual domain, generally none of these domain-specific tools can be used to model the cross-domain interactions. In the case of laser weapons systems R&D these tools need to be able to support modeling of systems involving combined interactions among structures, thermal, and optical effects, including both ray optics and wave optics, controls, atmospheric effects, target interaction, computational fluid dynamics, and spatiotemporal interactions between lasing light and the laser gain medium. To address this problem we are working to extend Comet™, to add the addition modeling and simulation capabilities required for this particular application area. In this paper we will describe our progress to date.

Laser pulse coded signal frequency measuring device based on DSP and CPLD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hai-bo; Cao, Li-hua; Geng, Ai-hui; Li, Yan; Guo, Ru-hai; Wang, Ting-feng

2011-06-01

Laser pulse code is an anti-jamming measures used in semi-active laser guided weapons. On account of the laser-guided signals adopting pulse coding mode and the weak signal processing, it need complex calculations in the frequency measurement process according to the laser pulse code signal time correlation to meet the request in optoelectronic countermeasures in semi-active laser guided weapons. To ensure accurately completing frequency measurement in a short time, it needed to carry out self-related process with the pulse arrival time series composed of pulse arrival time, calculate the signal repetition period, and then identify the letter type to achieve signal decoding from determining the time value, number and rank number in a signal cycle by Using CPLD and DSP for signal processing chip, designing a laser-guided signal frequency measurement in the pulse frequency measurement device, improving the signal processing capability through the appropriate software algorithms. In this article, we introduced the principle of frequency measurement of the device, described the hardware components of the device, the system works and software, analyzed the impact of some system factors on the accuracy of the measurement. The experimental results indicated that this system improve the accuracy of the measurement under the premise of volume, real-time, anti-interference, low power of the laser pulse frequency measuring device. The practicality of the design, reliability has been demonstrated from the experimental point of view.

Wavefront control of high-power laser beams in the National Ignition Facility (NIF)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zacharias, Richard A.; Bliss, Erlan S.; Winters, Scott; Sacks, Richard A.; Feldman, Mark; Grey, Andrew; Koch, Jeffrey A.; Stolz, Christopher J.; Toeppen, John S.; Van Atta, Lewis; Woods, Bruce W.

2000-04-01

The use of lasers as the driver for inertial confinement fusion and weapons physics experiments is based on their ability to produce high-energy short pulses in a beam with low divergence. Indeed, the focusability of high quality laser beams far exceeds alternate technologies and is a major factor in the rationale for building high power lasers for such applications. The National Ignition Facility (NIF) is a large, 192-beam, high-power laser facility under construction at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for fusion and weapons physics experiments. Its uncorrected minimum focal spot size is limited by laser system aberrations. The NIF includes a Wavefront Control System to correct these aberrations to yield a focal spot small enough for its applications. Sources of aberrations to be corrected include prompt pump-induced distortions in the laser amplifiers, previous-shot thermal distortions, beam off-axis effects, and gravity, mounting, and coating-induced optic distortions. Aberrations from gas density variations and optic-manufacturing figure errors are also partially corrected. This paper provides an overview of the NIF Wavefront Control System and describes the target spot size performance improvement it affords. It describes provisions made to accommodate the NIF's high fluence (laser beam and flashlamp), large wavefront correction range, wavefront temporal bandwidth, temperature and humidity variations, cleanliness requirements, and exception handling requirements (e.g. wavefront out-of-limits conditions).

Ideal Directed-Energy System To Defeat Small Unmanned Aircraft System Swarms

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-05-21

AIR COMMAND AND STAFF COLLEGE AIR UNIVERSITY IDEAL DIRECTED- ENERGY SYSTEM TO DEFEAT SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM SWARMS by David F. Pina...directed energy (DE) developmental systems indicate this class of weapons is the best solution. A review of several continuous wave laser, pulsed high...powered microwave, and electronic warfare/jamming systems indicate the following attributes as ideal for a future directed energy weapon (DEW) system

Using a CO2 laser for PIR-detector spoofing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schleijpen, Ric H. M. A.; van Putten, Frank J. M.

2016-10-01

This paper presents experimental work on the use of a CO2 laser for triggering of PIR sensors. Pyro-electric InfraRed sensors are often used as motion detectors for detection of moving persons or objects that are warmer than their environment. Apart from uses in the civilian domain, also applications in improvised weapons have been encountered. In such applications the PIR sensor triggers a weapon, when moving persons or vehicles are detected. A CO2 laser can be used to project a moving heat spot in front of the PIR, generating the same triggering effect as a real moving object. The goal of the research was to provide a basis for assessing the feasibility of the use of a CO2 laser as a countermeasure against PIR sensors. After a general introduction of the PIR sensing principle a theoretical and experimental analysis of the required power levels will be presented. Based on this quantitative analysis, a set up for indoor experiments to trigger the PIR devices remotely with a CO2 laser was prepared. Finally some selected results of the experiments will be presented. Implications for the use as a countermeasure will be discussed.

The development and application of high energy laser protective material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xinying; Hu, Yihua; Zhao, Yizheng

2016-03-01

With the emergence of strong light source, laser weapons in the modern war, the threat of damage to the photoelectric sensor and the human eye, the laser protection technology has begun to be paid attention to and widespread concern. In the laser protective materials, we can divide it into the protective material based on the principle of linear optics and the protective material based on the principle of nonlinear optics. In this paper, two different mechanisms of laser protective materials are introduced, and their development and application are reviewed.

Waveform agile high-power fiber laser illuminators for directed-energy weapon systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Engin, Doruk; Lu, Wei; Kimpel, Frank; Gupta, Shantanu

2012-06-01

A kW-class fiber-amplifier based laser illuminator system at 1030nm is demonstrated. At 125 kHz pulse repetition rate, 1.9mJ energy per pulse (235W average power) is achieved for 100nsec pulses with >72% optical conversion efficiency, and at 250kHz repetition, >350W average power is demonstrated, limited by the available pumps. Excellent agreement is established between the experimental results and dynamic fiber amplifier simulation, for predicting the pulse shape, spectrum and ASE accumulation throughout the fiber-amplifier chain. High pulse-energy, high power fiber-amplifier operation requires careful engineering - minimize ASE content throughout the pre-amplifier stages, use of large mode area gain fiber in the final power stage for effective pulse energy extraction, and pulse pre-shaping to compensate for the laser gain-saturation induced intra-pulse and pulse-pattern dependent distortion. Such optimization using commercially available (VLMA) fibers with core size in the 30-40μm range is estimated to lead to >4mJ pulse energy for 100nsec pulse at 50kHz repetition rate. Such waveform agile high-power, high-energy pulsed fiber laser illuminators at λ=1030nm satisfies requirements for active-tracking/ranging in high-energy laser (HEL) weapon systems, and in uplink laser beacon for deep space communication.

Navy Lasers, Railgun, and Hypervelocity Projectile: Background and Issues for Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-17

Congressional Research Service 3 it would be cost effective to spend money spreading offensive weapons across a wider array of Navy surface ships might...different kind of laser, called the free electron laser (FEL). In recent years, Navy research and development work on potential shipboard lasers has...We are going to say [to the next administration] ‘Look, we believe this is the place where you want to put your money , but we’re going to have

32 CFR 651.10 - Actions requiring environmental analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... engineering, laser testing, and electromagnetic pulse generation. (i) Leases, easements, permits, licenses, or... documentation before approving such requests. (l) Projects involving chemical weapons/munitions. ...

Analysis of influence and improvement measures on laser weapons induced by laser atmospheric transmission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Che, Jinxi; Zhang, Jinchun; Yang, Haiqiang; Li, Yu; Wang, Hongjun

2018-02-01

In the course of atmospheric transmission, laser atmospheric transmission study a series of linear optical effect produced by the interaction of atmosphere and laser and non-linear effect and the influence of laser transmission due to these effects. In this paper, the linear effects of atmosphere refringence, absorption, scattering and turbulence affecting laser transmission were analyzed. And the non-linear effects affecting laser atmosphere transmission were also analyzed. On this basis, the corresponding improvement measures were analyzed. To understand and master the laws of laser atmospheric transmission and study avoiding or as far as possible decreasing the influence of laser transmission induced by atmosphere, the outcome can be referred.

Investigation on scalable high-power lasers with enhanced 'eye-safety' for future weapon systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bigotta, S.; Diener, K.; Eichhorn, M.; Galecki, L.; Geiss, L.; Ibach, T.; Scharf, H.; von Salisch, M.; Schöner, J.; Vincent, G.

2016-10-01

The possible use of lasers as weapons becomes more and more interesting for military forces. Besides the generation of high laser power and good beam quality, also safety considerations, e. g. concerning eye hazards, are of importance. The MELIAS (medium energy laser in the "eye-safe" spectral domain) project of ISL addresses these issues, and ISL has developed the most powerful solid-state laser in the "eye-safe" wavelength region up to now. "Eye safety" in this context means that light at a wavelength of > 1.4 μm does not penetrate the eye and thus will not be focused onto the retina. The basic principle of this technology is that a laser source needs to be scalable in power to far beyond 100 kW without a significant deterioration in beam quality. ISL has studied a very promising laser technology: the erbium heat-capacity laser. This type of laser is characterised by a compact design, a simple and robust technology and a scaling law which, in principle, allows the generation of laser power far beyond megawatts at small volumes. Previous investigations demonstrated the scalability of the SSHCL and up to 4.65 kW and 440 J in less than 800 ms have been obtained. Opticalto- optical efficiencies of over 41% and slope efficiencies of over 51% are obtained. The residual thermal gradients, due to non perfect pumping homogeneity, negatively affect the performance in terms of laser pulse energy, duration and beam quality. In the course of the next two years, ISL will be designing a 25 to 30 kW erbium heat-capacity laser.

Power Systems and Energy Storage Modeling for Directed Energy Weapons

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

neodymium or ytterbium doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) crystal.6 The Maritime Laser Demonstration (MLD) features several 15 kW slab lasers combined...The laser substrate is similar to a fiber optic cable that is doped with a rare earth element (typically neodymium or ytterbium); many fibers can be...but with different elements. A typical construction consists of a sheet of Lithium- cobalt -oxide and a sheet of carbon separated by an insulator

Spectroscopic Analysis of PbO Chemiluminescence.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-12-01

laser theory and spectroscopy . I wish to thank Dr. Steve Davis for providing some of the equipment used in this research and Dr. E. A. Dorko, my...is due to the Air Force’s interest in chemical lasers . Knowledge gained from this research will provide the Air Force Weapons Laboratory with data...which will indicate possible directions to follow in chemical laser development. I personally chose this thesis topic because of a keen interest in both

Laser and gas centrifuge enrichment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heinonen, Olli

2014-05-01

Principles of uranium isotope enrichment using various laser and gas centrifuge techniques are briefly discussed. Examples on production of high enriched uranium are given. Concerns regarding the possibility of using low end technologies to produce weapons grade uranium are explained. Based on current assessments commercial enrichment services are able to cover the global needs of enriched uranium in the foreseeable future.

Closing the Gap: An Analysis of Options for Improving the USAF Fighter Fleet from 2105 to 2035

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

capacity. The CBO predicts an increase in capacity for both large, or 2000 lbs class weapons, and small , either 500 lbs class or Small Diameter Bomb ...Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) designed to penetrate extremely hardened bunkers with extreme accuracy.54 Larger weapons can provide better standoff range...operate with impunity in low intensity CAS scenarios. While survivability, with the exception of against small arms ground fire, is far less a

Nightfall and the Cloud: Examining the Future of Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles and Remotely Piloted Aircraft

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

likely outcomes and make decisions; however, that is a fundamentally different dy- namic than a true learning process. Preprogrammed assumptions and design ...ISR, targeting, forward air control, laser designation , weapons delivery, battle damage assessment ISR, targeting acquisition, and attack...KTAS 400 KTAS Weapons Payload N/A N/A 2 Hellfire missiles 4 Hellfire missiles 14 Hellfire or 4 Hellfire and 2x GBU -12 or 2 Joint Direct Attack

Laser safety management.

PubMed

Champion, J

2000-08-01

LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Since the first working laser was demonstrated in 1960 the laser has evolved from being viewed as a weapon, courtesy of the film industry, to its current position as a commonplace medical device within the healthcare industry. As perioperative staff we have become very familiar with the therapeutic use of this device. It is my experience however that, just occasionally, we are guilty of the old adage 'familiarity breeds contempt'. We must remember that the very same features which make lasers so useful in healthcare may also represent major health hazards to patients, staff and others.

Comparison of cooperative and non-cooperative adaptive optics reference performance for propagation with thermal blooming effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, Brian E.; Nitkowski, Arthur; Lawrence, Ryan; Horton, Kasey; Higgs, Charles

2004-10-01

Atmospheric turbulence and laser-induced thermal blooming effects can degrade the beam quality of a high-energy laser (HEL) weapon, and ultimately limit the amount of energy deliverable to a target. Lincoln Laboratory has built a thermal blooming laboratory capable of emulating atmospheric thermal blooming and turbulence effects for tactical HEL systems. The HEL weapon emulation hardware includes an adaptive optics beam delivery system, which utilizes a Shack-Hartman wavefront sensor and a 349 actuator deformable mirror. For this experiment, the laboratory was configured to emulate an engagement scenario consisting of sea skimming target approaching directly toward the HEL weapon at a range of 10km. The weapon utilizes a 1.5m aperture and radiates at a 1.62 micron wavelength. An adaptive optics reference beam was provided as either a point source located at the target (cooperative) or a projected point source reflected from the target (uncooperative). Performance of the adaptive optics system was then compared between reference sources. Results show that, for operating conditions with a thermal blooming distortion number of 75 and weak turbulence (Rytov of 0.02 and D/ro of 3), cooperative beacon AO correction experiences Phase Compensation Instability, resulting in lower performance than a simple, open-loop condition. The uncooperative beacon resulted in slightly better performance than the open-loop condition.

High average power scaleable thin-disk laser

DOEpatents

Beach, Raymond J.; Honea, Eric C.; Bibeau, Camille; Payne, Stephen A.; Powell, Howard; Krupke, William F.; Sutton, Steven B.

2002-01-01

Using a thin disk laser gain element with an undoped cap layer enables the scaling of lasers to extremely high average output power values. Ordinarily, the power scaling of such thin disk lasers is limited by the deleterious effects of amplified spontaneous emission. By using an undoped cap layer diffusion bonded to the thin disk, the onset of amplified spontaneous emission does not occur as readily as if no cap layer is used, and much larger transverse thin disks can be effectively used as laser gain elements. This invention can be used as a high average power laser for material processing applications as well as for weapon and air defense applications.

Cold Cathode Electron Beam Controlled CO2 Laser Performance.

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-10-01

Siegman (ref. 7), the cavity parameters are g, - 3/2, g2 3/4 so that 0he cavity will be confocal when the mirror separation is 2.5 m. The laser output was...E. Siegman , Laser Focus 7, 42, 1971. 8. W. F. Krupke and W. R. Sooy, IEEE Journal Quant. Elec. QE-5, 575, 1969. 9. 0. R. Wood, et al., Appl. Phys...U t AD/A-000 413 COLD CATHODE ELECTRON BEAM CONTROLLED C02 LASER PERFORMANCE Leslie L. McKee, 1II, et al Air Force Weapons Laboratory Kirtland Air

Open-path atmospheric transmission for a diode-pumped cesium laser.

PubMed

Rice, Christopher A; Lott, Gordon E; Perram, Glen P

2012-12-01

A tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy device was developed to study atmospheric propagation for emerging high-energy laser weapons. The cesium diode-pumped alkali laser operates near 895 nm in the vicinity of several water-vapor absorption lines. Temperature, pressure, and water vapor concentration were determined for 150 m and 1 km open paths with statistical errors of ∼0.2%. Comparison with meteorological instruments yields agreement for the 1 km path to within 0.6% for temperature, 3.7% for pressure, and 2.4% for concentration.

Airborne laser sensors and integrated systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabatini, Roberto; Richardson, Mark A.; Gardi, Alessandro; Ramasamy, Subramanian

2015-11-01

The underlying principles and technologies enabling the design and operation of airborne laser sensors are introduced and a detailed review of state-of-the-art avionic systems for civil and military applications is presented. Airborne lasers including Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), Laser Range Finders (LRF), and Laser Weapon Systems (LWS) are extensively used today and new promising technologies are being explored. Most laser systems are active devices that operate in a manner very similar to microwave radars but at much higher frequencies (e.g., LIDAR and LRF). Other devices (e.g., laser target designators and beam-riders) are used to precisely direct Laser Guided Weapons (LGW) against ground targets. The integration of both functions is often encountered in modern military avionics navigation-attack systems. The beneficial effects of airborne lasers including the use of smaller components and remarkable angular resolution have resulted in a host of manned and unmanned aircraft applications. On the other hand, laser sensors performance are much more sensitive to the vagaries of the atmosphere and are thus generally restricted to shorter ranges than microwave systems. Hence it is of paramount importance to analyse the performance of laser sensors and systems in various weather and environmental conditions. Additionally, it is important to define airborne laser safety criteria, since several systems currently in service operate in the near infrared with considerable risk for the naked human eye. Therefore, appropriate methods for predicting and evaluating the performance of infrared laser sensors/systems are presented, taking into account laser safety issues. For aircraft experimental activities with laser systems, it is essential to define test requirements taking into account the specific conditions for operational employment of the systems in the intended scenarios and to verify the performance in realistic environments at the test ranges. To support the development of such requirements, useful guidelines are provided for test and evaluation of airborne laser systems including laboratory, ground and flight test activities.

Conceptual design of 100 TW solid state laser system

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McMordie, J.A.

1995-12-31

Currently the main solid state laser facilities used for plasma physics research in the United Kingdom are the VULCAN laser at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and the HELEN facility at the Atomic Weapons Establishment. In the future it is proposed to replace HELEN with a new 100 TW facility to come on line early in the next century. A brief review is given of the VULCAN and HELEN. Then the authors discuss the design for the HELEN replacement.

Space weapon technology and policy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hitchens, Theresa

2017-11-01

The military use of space, including in support of nuclear weapons infrastructure, has greatly increased over the past 30 years. In the current era, rising geopolitical tensions between the United States and Russia and China have led to assumptions in all three major space powers that warfighting in space now is inevitable, and possible because of rapid technological advancements. New capabilities for disrupting and destroying satellites include radio-frequency jamming, the use of lasers, maneuverable space objects and more capable direct-ascent anti-satellite weapons. This situation, however, threatens international security and stability among nuclear powers. There is a continuing and necessary role for diplomacy, especially the establishment of normative rules of behavior, to reduce risks of misperceptions and crisis escalation, including up to the use of nuclear weapons. U.S. policy and strategy should seek a balance between traditional military approaches to protecting its space assets and diplomatic tools to create a more secure space environment.

Finite element analysis of space debris removal by high-power lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xue, Li; Jiang, Guanlei; Yu, Shuang; Li, Ming

2015-08-01

With the development of space station technologies, irradiation of space debris by space-based high-power lasers, can locally generate high-temperature plasmas and micro momentum, which may achieve the removal of debris through tracking down. Considered typical square-shaped space debris of material Ti with 5cm×5cm size, whose thermal conductivity, density, specific heat capacity and emissivity are 7.62W/(m·°C), 4500kg/m3, 0.52J/(kg·°C) and 0.3,respectively, based on the finite element analysis of ANSYS, each irradiation of space debris by high-power lasers with power density 106W/m2 and weapons-grade lasers with power density 3000W/m2 are simulated under space environment, and the temperature curves due to laser thermal irradiation are obtained and compared. Results show only 2s is needed for high-power lasers to make the debris temperature reach to about 10000K, which is the threshold temperature for plasmas-state conversion. While for weapons-grade lasers, it is 13min needed. Using two line elements (TLE), and combined with the coordinate transformation from celestial coordinate system to site coordinate system, the visible period of space debris is calculated as 5-10min. That is, in order to remove space debris by laser plasmas, the laser power density should be further improved. The article provides an intuitive and visual feasibility analysis method of space debris removal, and the debris material and shape, laser power density and spot characteristics are adjustable. This finite element analysis method is low-cost, repeatable and adaptable, which has an engineering-prospective applications.

48 CFR 252.225-7039 - Contractors performing private security functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., Tagging, Labeling, and Marking of Government-Furnished Property, and physically marked in accordance with... countermeasures (other than the discharge of a weapon, including laser optical distracters, acoustic hailing...

48 CFR 252.225-7039 - Contractors performing private security functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., Tagging, Labeling, and Marking of Government-Furnished Property, and physically marked in accordance with... countermeasures (other than the discharge of a weapon, including laser optical distracters, acoustic hailing...

Multipass reconfiguration of the HELEN Nd:glass laser at the Atomic Weapons Establishment.

PubMed

Norman, Michael J; Andrew, James E; Bett, Thomas H; Clifford, Roger K; England, John E; Hopps, Nicholas W; Parker, Kenneth W; Porter, Kenneth; Stevenson, Mark

2002-06-20

The HELEN high-power Nd:glass laser has been rebuilt in a new multipass configuration that requires fewer components to maintain existing performance. This is expected to lead to greater system availability and reduced running costs. We describe the new design, discuss some of the key issues that had to be addressed, and present operational results.

Department of the Army Justification of Estimates for Fiscal Year 1983 Submitted to Congress February 1982. Part 3 (Weapons & Tracked Combat Vehicles).

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-02-01

of 130 kits for the Fire Support Teem Vehicle, an integrated system platform which will provide under - armor protection for the ground laser locator...procureuent of 495 kits for the Fire Support Team Vehicles, an integrated system platform which will provide under - armor protection for the Ground Laser

Sandia technology: Engineering and science applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maydew, M. C.; Parrot, H.; Dale, B. C.; Floyd, H. L.; Leonard, J. A.; Parrot, L.

1990-12-01

This report discusses: protecting environment, safety, and health; Sandia's quality initiative; Sandia vigorously pursues technology transfer; scientific and technical education support programs; nuclear weapons development; recognizing battlefield targets with trained artificial neural networks; battlefield robotics: warfare at a distance; a spinning shell sizes up the enemy; thwarting would-be nuclear terrorists; unattended video surveillance system for nuclear facilities; making the skies safer for travelers; onboard instrumentation system to evaluate performance of stockpile bombs; keeping track with lasers; extended-life lithium batteries; a remote digital video link acquires images securely; guiding high-performance missiles with laser gyroscopes; nonvolatile memory chips for space applications; initiating weapon explosives with lasers; next-generation optoelectronics and microelectronics technology developments; chemometrics: new methods for improving chemical analysis; research team focuses ion beam to record-breaking intensities; standardizing the volt to quantum accuracy; new techniques improve robotic software development productivity; a practical laser plasma source for generating soft x-rays; exploring metal grain boundaries; massively parallel computing; modeling the amount of desiccant needed for moisture control; attacking pollution with sunshine; designing fuel-conversion catalysts with computers; extending a nuclear power plant's useful life; plasma-facing components for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor.

Comparison of Bite Registration Material Accuracy on in office Laser Scanned Digital Model Occlusion

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-20

School/Department/Center: Two Year Advanced Education in General Dentistry . Fort Bragg,NC 4. Phone:910-429-6626 5. Type of clearance: _X_Paper...Date: 11.~ l~ 4. Higher approval clearance required (for University-, DoD- or US Gov’t-level policy, communication systems or weapons issues review...or US Gov’t-level policy, communications systems or weapons issues review). *Note: It is DoD policy that clearance of information or material

Basic Studies on Electro-Energetic Physics (EEP) Weapons Technologies

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-15

Po\\\\ered Microwa\\e. High Energ) Laser. Charged Particle Beams. and II) pcrsonic Rail guns . Using these representations. wargame simulations of’ arious...Projectile length = 30 in (76 cm) • Barrel length = 10 m • Muzzle velocity = 2,100 m/s To understand how such an advanced weapon compares with conventional...weaponry, it is illustrating to compare these figures with the M-1 Abrams M256 120mm gun firing a M829A1 kinetic energy round Page 5 • Muzzle

United States Air Force Summer Faculty Research Program. Management Report. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-12-01

Weapons Laboratory 64 Realization of Sublayer Relative Dr. Lane Clark Shielding Order in Electromagnetic Topology 65 Diode Laser Probe of Vibrational Dr...34Tunable Diode Laser Measurements of Air-Broadened Linewidths in the v6 Band of H202," AppI. Opt. 25, 1844 (1986). 18. M. A. H. Smith, G. A. Harvey, G...Varghese and R. K. Hanson, "Tunable Diode Laser Measurements of Spectral Parameters of HCN at Room Temperature," J. Quant. Spectrosc. Radiat. Transfer 31

PHYSICS: Will Livermore Laser Ever Burn Brightly?

PubMed

Seife, C; Malakoff, D

2000-08-18

The National Ignition Facility (NIF), a superlaser being built here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in an effort to use lasers rather than nuclear explosions to create a fusion reaction, is supposed to allow weapons makers to preserve the nuclear arsenal--and do nifty fusion science, too. But a new report that examines its troubled past also casts doubt on its future. Even some of NIF's scientific and political allies are beginning to talk openly of a scaled-down version of the original 192-laser design.

From weapons to white dwarfs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cartlidge, Edwin

2016-10-01

Military research centres that use giant lasers to study conditions inside nuclear warheads are increasingly opening their doors to university students. Edwin Cartlidge asks what the labs and the researchers have to gain from the arrangement

Test technology on divergence angle of laser range finder based on CCD imaging fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Sheng-bing; Chen, Zhen-xing; Lv, Yao

2016-09-01

Laser range finder has been equipped with all kinds of weapons, such as tank, ship, plane and so on, is important component of fire control system. Divergence angle is important performance and incarnation of horizontal resolving power for laser range finder, is necessary appraised test item in appraisal test. In this paper, based on high accuracy test on divergence angle of laser range finder, divergence angle test system is designed based on CCD imaging, divergence angle of laser range finder is acquired through fusion technology for different attenuation imaging, problem that CCD characteristic influences divergence angle test is solved.

Fabrication and researching of weathering resistant double cladding power delivery fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rong, Liang; Ren, Junjiang; Li, Rundong; Wang, Lianping; Zou, Huan

2016-01-01

A novel well weathering resistant power delivery fiber which is of double cladding and high optical energy transmitting ability is developed via fluoroplastic out sheath extruding process. The fiber has been comprehensively evaluated including optical performance, mechanical performance, environmental suitability and laser transmitting property. It is shown that the fiber has not only low attenuation, high numerical aperture and better mechanical bending performance, but also outstanding weathering resistance and high power laser transmitting performance, which implies the qualification of the fiber for various kinds of applying situations, such as laser ignition, laser induced expanding sound underwater, ship-based and airborne laser weapon.

Prospects for quantum cascade lasers as transmitters and local oscillators in coherent terahertz transmitter/receiver systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waldman, Jerry; Danylov, Andriy A.; Goyette, Thomas M.; Coulombe, Michael J.; Giles, Robert H.; Gatesman, Andrew J.; Goodhue, William D.; Li, Jin; Linden, Kurt J.; Nixon, William E.

2009-02-01

Coherent terahertz radar systems, using CO2 laser-pumped molecular lasers have been used during the past decade for radar scale modeling applications, as well as proof-of-principle demonstrations of remote detection of concealed weapons. The presentation will consider the potential for replacement of molecular laser sources by quantum cascade lasers. While the temporal and spatial characteristics of current THz QCLs limit their applicability, rapid progress is being made in resolving these issues. Specifications for satisfying the requirements of coherent short-range THz radars will be reviewed and the feasibility of incorporating existing QCL devices into such systems will be described.

How NIF Works

ScienceCinema

None

2017-12-09

The National Ignition Facility, located at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, is the world's largest laser system... 192 huge laser beams in a massive building, all focused down at the last moment at a 2 millimeter ball containing frozen hydrogen gas. The goal is to achieve fusion... getting more energy out than was used to create it. It's never been done before under controlled conditions, just in nuclear weapons and in stars. We expect to do it within the next 2-3 years. The purpose is threefold: to create an almost limitless supply of safe, carbon-free, proliferation-free electricity; examine new regimes of astrophysics as well as basic science; and study the inner-workings of the U.S. stockpile of nuclear weapons to ensure they remain safe, secure and reliable without the need for underground testing. More information about NIF can be found at:

Imaging through atmospheric turbulence for laser based C-RAM systems: an analytical approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buske, Ivo; Riede, Wolfgang; Zoz, Jürgen

2013-10-01

High Energy Laser weapons (HEL) have unique attributes which distinguish them from limitations of kinetic energy weapons. HEL weapons engagement process typical starts with identifying the target and selecting the aim point on the target through a high magnification telescope. One scenario for such a HEL system is the countermeasure against rockets, artillery or mortar (RAM) objects to protect ships, camps or other infrastructure from terrorist attacks. For target identification and especially to resolve the aim point it is significant to ensure high resolution imaging of RAM objects. During the whole ballistic flight phase the knowledge about the expectable imaging quality is important to estimate and evaluate the countermeasure system performance. Hereby image quality is mainly influenced by unavoidable atmospheric turbulence. Analytical calculations have been taken to analyze and evaluate image quality parameters during an approaching RAM object. In general, Kolmogorov turbulence theory was implemented to determine atmospheric coherence length and isoplanatic angle. The image acquisition is distinguishing between long and short exposure times to characterize tip/tilt image shift and the impact of high order turbulence fluctuations. Two different observer positions are considered to show the influence of the selected sensor site. Furthermore two different turbulence strengths are investigated to point out the effect of climate or weather condition. It is well known that atmospheric turbulence degenerates image sharpness and creates blurred images. Investigations are done to estimate the effectiveness of simple tip/tilt systems or low order adaptive optics for laser based C-RAM systems.

Long range laser propagation: power scaling and beam quality issues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bohn, Willy L.

2010-09-01

This paper will address long range laser propagation applications where power and, in particular beam quality issues play a major role. Hereby the power level is defined by the specific mission under consideration. I restrict myself to the following application areas: (1)Remote sensing/Space based LIDAR, (2) Space debris removal (3)Energy transmission, and (4)Directed energy weapons Typical examples for space based LIDARs are the ADM Aeolus ESA mission using the ALADIN Nd:YAG laser with its third harmonic at 355 nm and the NASA 2 μm Tm:Ho:LuLiF convectively cooled solid state laser. Space debris removal has attracted more attention in the last years due to the dangerous accumulation of debris in orbit which become a threat to the satellites and the ISS space station. High power high brightness lasers may contribute to this problem by partially ablating the debris material and hence generating an impulse which will eventually de-orbit the debris with their subsequent disintegration in the lower atmosphere. Energy transmission via laser beam from space to earth has long been discussed as a novel long term approach to solve the energy problem on earth. In addition orbital transfer and stationkeeping are among the more mid-term applications of high power laser beams. Finally, directed energy weapons are becoming closer to reality as corresponding laser sources have matured due to recent efforts in the JHPSSL program. All of this can only be realized if he laser sources fulfill the necessary power requirements while keeping the beam quality as close as possible to the diffraction limited value. And this is the rationale and motivation of this paper.

Laser applications in ophthalmology: overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soederberg, Per G.

1992-03-01

In 1961, one year after its invention, the laser was used for experimental photocoagulation in animals. In 1963 it was tried for treatment of human eyes. Due to the fact that the optical media in the eye are transmissible to light, the laser offers the unique possibility of measuring and manipulating within a very strict localization without opening the eye. The properties of laser light are increasingly exploited for diagnostics in ophthalmic disease. The introduction of the laser as a tool in ophthalmology has revolutionized ophthalmic treatment. Unfortunately, it has been pointed out in international peace meetings that the biological effect evoked by lasers can also be used for intentional destruction of the vision of enemy soldiers. To prevent such an abuse of lasers against eyes, a strong formal international anti-laser weapon movement has been initiated.

Effects of thermal blooming on systems comprised of tiled subapertures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leakeas, Charles L.; Bartell, Richard J.; Krizo, Matthew J.; Fiorino, Steven T.; Cusumano, Salvatore J.; Whiteley, Matthew R.

2010-04-01

Laser weapon systems comprise of tiled subapertures are rapidly emerging in the directed energy community. The Air Force Institute of Technology Center for Directed Energy (AFIT/CDE), under sponsorship of the HEL Joint Technology Office has developed performance models of such laser weapon system configurations consisting of tiled arrays of both slab and fiber subapertures. These performance models are based on results of detailed waveoptics analyses conducted using WaveTrain. Previous performance model versions developed in this effort represent system characteristics such as subaperture shape, aperture fill factor, subaperture intensity profile, subaperture placement in the primary aperture, subaperture mutual coherence (piston), subaperture differential jitter (tilt), and beam quality wave-front error associated with each subaperture. The current work is a prerequisite for the development of robust performance models for turbulence and thermal blooming effects for tiled systems. Emphasis is placed on low altitude tactical scenarios. The enhanced performance model developed will be added to AFIT/CDE's HELEEOS parametric one-on-one engagement level model via the Scaling for High Energy Laser and Relay Engagement (SHaRE) toolbox.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hellemans, A.

Space beam weapons and unlimited energy from fusion may have been pipe dreams of the 1980s. But today these dreams are giving birth to practical laboratory tools: tabletop x-ray lasers that may open up whole new areas of chemistry and biology. The first x-ray lasers were energized by nuclear explosions or jolts of light from giant glass lasers built for fusion experiments-hardly bench-top equipment. Now, says Joseph Nilsen, a physicist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), {open_quotes}several small university-size places are actually making a lot of progress toward tabletop lasers people can use every day.{close_quotes} This article highlight progress towardsmore » cheap ubiquitous X-ray lasers as described at the 5th International Conference on X-ray Lasers.« less

Laser pointers: toys, nuisances, or significant eye hazards?

PubMed

Yolton, R L; Citek, K; Schmeisser, E; Reichow, A W; Griffith, T

1999-05-01

Laser pointers have been used inappropriately to harass and "dazzle" victims. Reports of retinal damage caused by pointers have also been circulated in the popular press. Information on pointer abuse was collected from the literature and through discussions with specialists. Few, if any, documented cases of permanent retinal damage caused by laser pointers could be found. For actual damage to occur, viewing, times need to exceed approximately 10 seconds. Exposures of this duration would require the person being lased to cooperate by holding fixation on the laser beam. Although the risk of permanent retinal damage from a laser-pointer beam is minimal, other risks include dazzle, annoyance, and concern that a weapon-aiming device rather than a pointer is generating the laser beam.

How NIF Works

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None

2009-07-30

The National Ignition Facility, located at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, is the world's largest laser system... 192 huge laser beams in a massive building, all focused down at the last moment at a 2 millimeter ball containing frozen hydrogen gas. The goal is to achieve fusion... getting more energy out than was used to create it. It's never been done before under controlled conditions, just in nuclear weapons and in stars. We expect to do it within the next 2-3 years. The purpose is threefold: to create an almost limitless supply of safe, carbon-free, proliferation-free electricity; examine new regimes ofmore » astrophysics as well as basic science; and study the inner-workings of the U.S. stockpile of nuclear weapons to ensure they remain safe, secure and reliable without the need for underground testing. More information about NIF can be found at:« less

Control of a laser inertial confinement fusion-fission power plant

DOEpatents

Moses, Edward I.; Latkowski, Jeffery F.; Kramer, Kevin J.

2015-10-27

A laser inertial-confinement fusion-fission energy power plant is described. The fusion-fission hybrid system uses inertial confinement fusion to produce neutrons from a fusion reaction of deuterium and tritium. The fusion neutrons drive a sub-critical blanket of fissile or fertile fuel. A coolant circulated through the fuel extracts heat from the fuel that is used to generate electricity. The inertial confinement fusion reaction can be implemented using central hot spot or fast ignition fusion, and direct or indirect drive. The fusion neutrons result in ultra-deep burn-up of the fuel in the fission blanket, thus enabling the burning of nuclear waste. Fuels include depleted uranium, natural uranium, enriched uranium, spent nuclear fuel, thorium, and weapons grade plutonium. LIFE engines can meet worldwide electricity needs in a safe and sustainable manner, while drastically shrinking the highly undesirable stockpiles of depleted uranium, spent nuclear fuel and excess weapons materials.

Navy Lasers, Railgun, and Hypervelocity Projectile: Background and Issues for Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-27

surface ships to defend themselves against enemy missiles—solid state lasers (SSLs), the electromagnetic railgun (EMRG), and the hypervelocity... electromagnetic railgun (EMRG), and the hypervelocity projectile (HVP). 1 Any one of these new weapon technologies, if successfully developed and deployed...Number: N00024-15-R-4132, FedBizOpps.gov, July 29, 2015. See also Justin Doubleday, “Navy Developing Integrated Mount For Electromagnetic Railgun

Directed-Energy Weapons: Invisible and Invincible?

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-01

deliver kinetic energy into the target’s atomic structure and they do not direct electromagnetic waves like lasers or high- power microwaves, particle...will be the easiest tactical protection method against the low- energy and medium- energy lasers , whose kill mechanism depends on holding the beam on a...might cost around $8,000, whereas kinetic energy missiles cost hundreds of thousands of dollars or even millions of dollars, depending on their

Laser-induced damage in optical materials: sixteenth ASTM symposium.

PubMed

Bennett, H E; Guenther, A H; Milam, D; Newnam, B E

1987-03-01

The Sixteenth Annual Symposium on Optical Materials for High Power Lasers (Boulder Damage Symposium) was held at the National Bureau of Standards in Boulder, CO, 15-17 Oct. 1984. The Symposium was held under the auspices of ASTM Committee F-1, Subcommittee on Laser Standards, with the joint sponsorship of NBS, the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency, the Department of Energy, the Office of Naval Research, and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. Approximately 180 scientists attended the Symposium, including representatives from England, France, The Netherlands, Scotland, and West Germany. The Symposium was divided into sessions concerning Materials and Measurements, Mirrors and Surfaces, Thin Films, and Fundamental Mechanisms. As in previous years, the emphasis of the papers presented at the Symposium was directed toward new frontiers and new developments. Particular emphasis was given to materials for high-power apparatus. The wavelength range of prime interest was from 10.6,microm to the UV region. Highlights included surface characterization, thin-film-substrate boundaries, and advances in fundamental laser-matter threshold interactions and mechanisms. Harold E. Bennett of the U.S. Naval Weapons Center, Arthur H. Guenther of the U.S. Air Force Weapons Laboratory, David Milam of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and Brian E. Newnam of the Los Alamos National Laboratory were cochairmen of the Symposium.

An Annotated Bibliography of MANPRINT-Related Assessments and Evaluations Conducted by the U.S. Army, 2nd Edition: 1953 to 2009. Volume 1- Index

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-01

System (ACABA) MA 1973 Armored Vest M1955 Body Armor- Armored Vest M1955 USMC M1955 Armored Vest and the Proposed Titanium Nylon Improved... Laser - MILES Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System in an Operational Environment (MILES) MA 1980 SAW M249 Rifle- 5.56mm- Machine Gun- SAW M249...Weapon System MA 1993 MCF MCF Modular Causeway Ferry (MCF) MA 1993 MDS NBC- Decon- MDS Modular Decontamination System (MDS) MA 1993 MELIOS Laser

Research on laser detonation pulse circuit with low-power based on super capacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Hao-yu; Hong, Jin; He, Aifeng; Jing, Bo; Cao, Chun-qiang; Ma, Yue; Chu, En-yi; Hu, Ya-dong

2018-03-01

According to the demand of laser initiating device miniaturization and low power consumption of weapon system, research on the low power pulse laser detonation circuit with super capacitor. Established a dynamic model of laser output based on super capacitance storage capacity, discharge voltage and programmable output pulse width. The output performance of the super capacitor under different energy storage capacity and discharge voltage is obtained by simulation. The experimental test system was set up, and the laser diode of low power pulsed laser detonation circuit was tested and the laser output waveform of laser diode in different energy storage capacity and discharge voltage was collected. Experiments show that low power pulse laser detonation based on super capacitor energy storage circuit discharge with high efficiency, good transient performance, for a low power consumption requirement, for laser detonation system and low power consumption and provide reference light miniaturization of engineering practice.

Physics Division progress report, January 1, 1984-September 30, 1986

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Keller, W.E.

1987-10-01

This report provides brief accounts of significant progress in development activities and research results achieved by Physics Division personnel during the period January 1, 1984, through September 31, 1986. These efforts are representative of the three main areas of experimental research and development in which the Physics Division serves Los Alamos National Laboratory's and the Nation's needs in defense and basic sciences: (1) defense physics, including the development of diagnostic methods for weapons tests, weapon-related high-energy-density physics, and programs supporting the Strategic Defense Initiative; (2) laser physics and applications, especially to high-density plasmas; and (3) fundamental research in nuclear andmore » particle physics, condensed-matter physics, and biophysics. Throughout the report, emphasis is placed on the design, construction, and application of a variety of advanced, often unique, instruments and instrument systems that maintain the Division's position at the leading edge of research and development in the specific fields germane to its mission. A sampling of experimental systems of particular interest would include the relativistic electron-beam accelerator and its applications to high-energy-density plasmas; pulsed-power facilities; directed energy weapon devices such as free-electron lasers and neutral-particle-beam accelerators; high-intensity ultraviolet and x-ray beam lines at the National Synchrotron Light Source (at Brookhaven National Laboratory); the Aurora KrF ultraviolet laser system for projected use as an inertial fusion driver; antiproton physics facility at CERN; and several beam developments at the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility for studying nuclear, condensed-matter, and biological physics, highlighted by progress in establishing the Los Alamos Neutron Scattering Center.« less

ORION laser target diagnostics.

PubMed

Bentley, C D; Edwards, R D; Andrew, J E; James, S F; Gardner, M D; Comley, A J; Vaughan, K; Horsfield, C J; Rubery, M S; Rothman, S D; Daykin, S; Masoero, S J; Palmer, J B; Meadowcroft, A L; Williams, B M; Gumbrell, E T; Fyrth, J D; Brown, C R D; Hill, M P; Oades, K; Wright, M J; Hood, B A; Kemshall, P

2012-10-01

The ORION laser facility is one of the UK's premier laser facilities which became operational at AWE in 2010. Its primary mission is one of stockpile stewardship, ORION will extend the UK's experimental plasma physics capability to the high temperature, high density regime relevant to Atomic Weapons Establishment's (AWE) program. The ORION laser combines ten laser beams operating in the ns regime with two sub ps short pulse chirped pulse amplification beams. This gives the UK a unique combined long pulse/short pulse laser capability which is not only available to AWE personnel but also gives access to our international partners and visiting UK academia. The ORION laser facility is equipped with a comprehensive suite of some 45 diagnostics covering optical, particle, and x-ray diagnostics all able to image the laser target interaction point. This paper focuses on a small selection of these diagnostics.

Monolithic QCL design approaches for improved reliability and affordability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Law, K. K.

2013-12-01

Many advances have been made recently in mid-wave infrared and long-wave infrared quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) technologies, and there is an increasing demand for these laser sources for ever expanding Naval, DoD and homeland security applications. We will discuss in this paper a portfolio of various Naval Air Warfare Weapons Division's current and future small business innovative research programs and efforts on significantly improving QCLs' performance, affordability, and reliability.

Development of Fluidic Guidance for KEW (Kinetic Energy Weapon) Projectiles

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-12-30

commanded to a hit-to-kill on a hostile ICBK booster. A novel application of-the photo-acoustic effect is used for laser detection. An acoustic wave...Hughes High Endo-Atmospheric Interceptor Concept.. 2 3 Conceptual SDI KE projectile ........................ 3 4 Schematic of photo-acoustic effect ...practical, KEWs must be lightweight, able to withstand high "g" forces, and insensitive to nuclear and electro-magnetic effects . Laser command guidance can

Ensuring Operational Readiness: Private Military Contractor Support for the United States Air Force

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-15

range, supersonic, low altitude terrain following bomber that could evade Soviet detection. It is now loaded with conventional bombs and flown hundreds... bombs that commercially available single engine propeller planes can employ. The Airmen who perform this endeavor are America’s finest. They...array of weapons, to include laser, electro optical, and infrared guided missiles, laser and GPS guided bombs , 2.75” rockets, and a 20mm Gatling gun

The Complete Burning of Weapons Grade Plutonium and Highly Enriched Uranium with (Laser Inertial Fusion-Fission Energy) LIFE Engine

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Farmer, J C; Diaz de la Rubia, T; Moses, E

2008-12-23

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) project, a laser-based Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) experiment designed to achieve thermonuclear fusion ignition and burn in the laboratory, is under construction at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and will be completed in April of 2009. Experiments designed to accomplish the NIF's goal will commence in late FY2010 utilizing laser energies of 1 to 1.3 MJ. Fusion yields of the order of 10 to 20 MJ are expected soon thereafter. Laser initiated fusion-fission (LIFE) engines have now been designed to produce nuclear power from natural or depleted uranium without isotopic enrichment, and from spentmore » nuclear fuel from light water reactors without chemical separation into weapons-attractive actinide streams. A point-source of high-energy neutrons produced by laser-generated, thermonuclear fusion within a target is used to achieve ultra-deep burn-up of the fertile or fissile fuel in a sub-critical fission blanket. Fertile fuels including depleted uranium (DU), natural uranium (NatU), spent nuclear fuel (SNF), and thorium (Th) can be used. Fissile fuels such as low-enrichment uranium (LEU), excess weapons plutonium (WG-Pu), and excess highly-enriched uranium (HEU) may be used as well. Based upon preliminary analyses, it is believed that LIFE could help meet worldwide electricity needs in a safe and sustainable manner, while drastically shrinking the nation's and world's stockpile of spent nuclear fuel and excess weapons materials. LIFE takes advantage of the significant advances in laser-based inertial confinement fusion that are taking place at the NIF at LLNL where it is expected that thermonuclear ignition will be achieved in the 2010-2011 timeframe. Starting from as little as 300 to 500 MW of fusion power, a single LIFE engine will be able to generate 2000 to 3000 MWt in steady state for periods of years to decades, depending on the nuclear fuel and engine configuration. Because the fission blanket in a fusion-fission hybrid system is subcritical, a LIFE engine can burn any fertile or fissile nuclear material, including unenriched natural or depleted U and SNF, and can extract a very high percentage of the energy content of its fuel resulting in greatly enhanced energy generation per metric ton of nuclear fuel, as well as nuclear waste forms with vastly reduced concentrations of long-lived actinides. LIFE engines could thus provide the ability to generate vast amounts of electricity while greatly reducing the actinide content of any existing or future nuclear waste and extending the availability of low cost nuclear fuels for several thousand years. LIFE also provides an attractive pathway for burning excess weapons Pu to over 99% FIMA (fission of initial metal atoms) without the need for fabricating or reprocessing mixed oxide fuels (MOX). Because of all of these advantages, LIFE engines offer a pathway toward sustainable and safe nuclear power that significantly mitigates nuclear proliferation concerns and minimizes nuclear waste. An important aspect of a LIFE engine is the fact that there is no need to extract the fission fuel from the fission blanket before it is burned to the desired final level. Except for fuel inspection and maintenance process times, the nuclear fuel is always within the core of the reactor and no weapons-attractive materials are available outside at any point in time. However, an important consideration when discussing proliferation concerns associated with any nuclear fuel cycle is the ease with which reactor fuel can be converted to weapons usable materials, not just when it is extracted as waste, but at any point in the fuel cycle. Although the nuclear fuel remains in the core of the engine until ultra deep actinide burn up is achieved, soon after start up of the engine, once the system breeds up to full power, several tons of fissile material is present in the fission blanket. However, this fissile material is widely dispersed in millions of fuel pebbles, which can be tagged as individual accountable items, and thus made difficult to divert in large quantities. This report discusses the application of the LIFE concept to nonproliferation issues, initially looking at the LIFE (Laser Inertial Fusion-Fission Energy) engine as a means of completely burning WG Pu and HEU. By combining a neutron-rich inertial fusion point source with energy-rich fission, the once-through closed fuel-cycle LIFE concept has the following characteristics: it is capable of efficiently burning excess weapons or separated civilian plutonium and highly enriched uranium; the fission blanket is sub-critical at all times (keff < 0.95); because LIFE can operate well beyond the point at which light water reactors (LWRs) need to be refueled due to burn-up of fissile material and the resulting drop in system reactivity, fuel burn-up of 99% or more appears feasible. The objective of this work is to develop LIFE technology for burning of WG-Pu and HEU.« less

Analysis of the fluctuations of a laser beam due to thermal turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ndlovu, Sphumelele C.; Chetty, Naven

2014-07-01

A laser beam propagating in air and passing through a point diffraction interferometer (PDI) produces stable interferograms that can be used to extract wavefront data such as major atmospheric characteristics: turbulence strength, inner scale and outer scale of the refractive index. These parameters need to be taken into consideration when developing defense laser weapons since they can be affected by thermal fluctuations that are due to the changes in temperature in close proximity to the propagating beam and results in phase shifts that can be used to calculate the temperature which causes wavefront perturbations on a propagating beam.

A history of semi-active laser dome and window materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sullivan, Roger M.

2014-05-01

Semi-Active Laser (SAL) guidance systems were developed starting in the mid-1960's and today form an important class of precision guided weapons. The laser wavelengths generally fall in the short wave infrared region of the spectrum. Relative to passive, image based, infrared seekers the optical demands placed on the domes or windows of SAL seekers is very modest, allowing the use of low cost, easily manufactured materials, such as polycarbonate. This paper will examine the transition of SAL window and dome science and technology from the laboratory to battlefield, with special emphasis on the story of polycarbonate domes.

History of chemical oxygen-iodine laser (COIL) development in the USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Truesdell, Keith A.; Helms, Charles A.; Hager, Gordon D.

1994-09-01

This is an overview of the development of Chemical Oxygen-Iodine Laser (COIL) technology in the United States. Key technical developments will be reviewed, beginning in 1960 and culminating in 1977 with the first COIL lasing demonstration at the Air Force Weapons Laboratory (now the Phillips Laboratory). The discussion will then turn to subsonic laser development, supersonic lasing demonstration and efficiency improvements, and finishing with a brief discussion of some spin off COIL technologies. Particular emphasis will be placed on how the O2 (1(Delta) ) generator and O2-I2 mixing nozzle technologies evolved.

History of chemical oxygen-iodine laser (COIL) development in the USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Truesdell, Keith A.; Helms, Charles A.; Hager, Gordon D.

1995-03-01

This is an overview of the development of Chemical Oxygen-Iodine Laser (COIL) technology in the United States. Key technical developments will be reviewed, beginning in 1960 and culminating in 1977 with the first COIL lasing demonstration at the Air Force Weapons Laboratory (now the Phillips Laboratory). The discussion will then turn to subsonic laser development, supersonic lasing demonstration and efficiency improvements, and finishing with a brief discussion of some spin off COIL technologies. Particular emphasis will be placed on how the O2 (1(Delta) ) generator and O2-I2 mixing nozzle technologies evolved.

Lasers, the Price of Admission in 2045

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

weapon research. High power lasers have commercial applications in welding metal, cutting steel , drilling through rocks, and fiber communications.92...demonstrated against three representative targets. First, the beam cut through a 15mm steel girder at 1 km distance. Second, the beam shot down a UAV at a...range of 2 km. Third, an 82mm steel ball was destroyed in a simulated mortar attack.161 The German company also claims that weather was a AU/ACSC

Integration of adaptive optics into highEnergy laser modeling and simulation

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

astronomy [1], where AO is often used to improve image resolution. Likewise, AO shows promise in improving HEL performance. To better understand how much...the focus of the beam on target. In astronomy , the target is an imaging sensor and the source is an astronomical object, while in the application of...mirror [21]. While AO in laser weapons is still a developing field, the technology has been used for several decades on telescopes in astronomy to

A Comparison of Detection and Tracking Methods as Applied to OPIR Optics

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

foreground % images. The function requires you to input the scenes in vector format % as well as the window size, w. You can also set the variable...2,ii)) hold on end %% Build Scene A_org = A; % Format track data add variance, variance not included here...Kopp, “High energy laser directed energy weapons,” APA , Tech. Rep. APA - TR-2008–0501, Air Power Australia, Apr. 2012. [5] High-energy laser. (n.d

U.S. Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems Roadmap 2010-2035: Eyes of the Army

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-04-09

Doppler LIDAR could provide data such as cloud density, wind speed, and real-time vertical wind pro- files). Also, a multispectral LIDAR payload designed...usually operate from unimproved areas and do not usually require an improved runway. Payloads may include a sensor ball with EO/IR and a laser range... lasers , communications relay, SIGINT, AIS, weapons, and supplies. Group 5 UAS must meet DoD airworthiness standards prior to operation in NAS

Branch point reconstructors for discontinuous light phase functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Bigot, Eric O.; Wild, Walter J.; Kibblewhite, Edward J.

1998-09-01

The study of phase discontinuities caused by atmospheric turbulence is a recent research topic; their study might yield significant improvements in high-quality adaptive optics systems, laser weapons and laser communication. We present in this paper an introduction to discontinuities in the light phase. We also provide a geometrical description of phase discontinuities, a study of their effect on Hartmann-Shack sensor measurements, as well as algorithms for measuring discontinuous light phases and the position of phase discontinuities.

Analysis of optical scheme for medium-range directed energy laser weapon system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jabczyński, Jan K.; Kaśków, Mateusz; Gorajek, Łukasz; Kopczyński, Krzysztof

2017-10-01

The relations between range of operation and aperture of laser weapon system were investigated, taking into account diffraction and technical limitations as beam quality, accuracy of point tracking, technical quality of optical train, etc. As a result for the medium ranges of 1 - 2 km we restricted the analysis to apertures not wider than 150 mm and the optical system without adaptive optics. To choose the best laser beam shape, the minimization of aperture losses and thermooptical effects inside optics as well as the effective width of laser beam in far field should be taken into account. We have analyzed theoretically such a problem for the group of a few most interesting from that point of view profiles including for reference two limiting cases of Gaussian beam and `top hat' profile. We have found that the most promising is the SuperGaussian profile of index p = 2 for which the surfaces of beam shaper elements can be manufactured in the acceptable cost-effective way and beam quality does not decrease noticeably. Further, we have investigated the thermo-optic effects on the far field parameters of Gaussian and `top hat' beams to determine the influence of absorption in optical elements on beam quality degradation. The simplified formulae were derived for beam quality measures (parameter M2 and Strehl ratio) which enables to estimate the influence of absorption losses on degradation of beam quality.

Laser based micro forming and assembly.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

MacCallum, Danny O'Neill; Wong, Chung-Nin Channy; Knorovsky, Gerald Albert

2006-11-01

It has been shown that thermal energy imparted to a metallic substrate by laser heating induces a transient temperature gradient through the thickness of the sample. In favorable conditions of laser fluence and absorptivity, the resulting inhomogeneous thermal strain leads to a measurable permanent deflection. This project established parameters for laser micro forming of thin materials that are relevant to MESA generation weapon system components and confirmed methods for producing micrometer displacements with repeatable bend direction and magnitude. Precise micro forming vectors were realized through computational finite element analysis (FEA) of laser-induced transient heating that indicated the optimal combination ofmore » laser heat input relative to the material being heated and its thermal mass. Precise laser micro forming was demonstrated in two practical manufacturing operations of importance to the DOE complex: micrometer gap adjustments of precious metal alloy contacts and forming of meso scale cones.« less

Effect of ZrO2 Powders on the Pyrolysis of Polycarbosilanes Coating Under Laser Ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Han; Chen, Zhaofeng; Tao, Jie; Yan, Bo; Li, Cong; Wang, Liangbing; Zhang, Ying; Fang, Dan; Wan, Shuicheng; Wu, Wangping

Aircrafts hold the outstanding mastery of the sky in modern wars, however the laser beam weapons can carry out laser attacking to aircrafts. The purpose of the present paper is to research on a new type laser protective material. Polycarbosilanes (PCS)/divinylbenzene mixtures containing ZrO2 powders were brushed to the surface of the aluminum alloy plates and then cured at 150°C for 6 h. The PCS-coated plates were ablated by laser for 3 s. The phase identification of as-ablated powders was examined by X-ray diffraction. The results indicated that the as-ablated powders of cured PCS were composed of major phase β-SiC and smaller amounts of free carbon. The PCS composite coating played a certain role of laser ablation resistance. The effect of added ZrO2 powders on the pyrolysis of PCS-coating under laser ablation is conspicuous.

Theory and simulent design of a type of auto-self-protecting optical switches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Binhong; Peng, Songcun

1990-06-01

As the use of lasers in the military and in the civilian economy increases with each passing day, it is often necessary for the human eye or sensitive instruments to observe weak lasers, such as the return waves of laser radar and laser communications signals; but it is also necessary to provide protection against damage to the eye from the strong lasers of enemy laser weapons. For this reason, it is necessary to have a kind of automatic optical self-protecting switch. Based upon a study of the transmitting and scattering characteristics of multilayer dielectric optical waveguides, a practical computer program is set up for designing a type of auto-self-protecting optical switch with a computer model by using the nonlinear property of dielectric layers and the plasma behavior of metal substrates. This technique can be used to protect the human eye and sensitive detectors from damage caused by strong laser beams.

Penetrating eye injury in war.

PubMed

Biehl, J W; Valdez, J; Hemady, R K; Steidl, S M; Bourke, D L

1999-11-01

The percentage of penetrating eye injuries in war has increased significantly in this century compared with the total number of combat injuries. With the increasing use of fragmentation weapons and possibly laser weapons on the battle-field in the future, the rate of eye injuries may exceed the 13% of the total military injuries found in Operations Desert Storm/Shield. During the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), eye injuries revealed that retained foreign bodies and posterior segment injuries have an improved prognosis in future military ophthalmic surgery as a result of modern diagnostic and treatment modalities. Compared with the increasing penetrating eye injuries on the battlefield, advances in ophthalmic surgery are insignificant. Eye armor, such as visors that flip up and down and protect the eyes from laser injury, needs to be developed. Similar eye protection is being developed in civilian sportswear. Penetrating eye injury in the civilian sector is becoming much closer to the military model and is now comparable for several reasons.

Laser Program Annual Report - 1979 Unclassified Excerpts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lindl, J D

The objective of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) program is to demonstrate the scientific feasibility of ICF for military applications (to develop and utilize the capability to study nuclear weapons physics in support of the weapons program) and for energy-directed uses in the civilian sector. The demonstration of scientific feasibility for both military and civilian objectives will require achieving gains on the order of 10 to 100 in fusion microexplosions. Our major near-term milestones include the attainment of high compression, one-hundred to one-thousand times (100 to 1000X) liquid D-T density in the thermonuclear fuel andmore » ignition of thermonuclear burn. In 1979, our laser fusion experiments and analysis programs focused on two important areas related to achieving this goal: conducting x-ray-driven implosions of a variety of D-T-filled fuel capsule's to unprecedented high densities ({approx}> 50X liquid D-T density) and the determination of the scaling of hot electrons and thermal radiation in hohlraums.« less

Opto-mechanical system design of test system for near-infrared and visible target

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chunyan; Zhu, Guodong; Wang, Yuchao

2014-12-01

Guidance precision is the key indexes of the guided weapon shooting. The factors of guidance precision including: information processing precision, control system accuracy, laser irradiation accuracy and so on. The laser irradiation precision is an important factor. This paper aimed at the demand of the precision test of laser irradiator，and developed the laser precision test system. The system consists of modified cassegrain system, the wide range CCD camera, tracking turntable and industrial PC, and makes visible light and near infrared target imaging at the same time with a Near IR camera. Through the analysis of the design results, when it exposures the target of 1000 meters that the system measurement precision is43mm, fully meet the needs of the laser precision test.

Research in the Optical Sciences.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-01-30

technology, as mirrors for laser weapons, and as protec- tive coatings in laser warfare. Three phases of the study were considered: 91. Laboratory...performance of simple metal coatings used on concentrating and flat-plate mirrors subject to high solar flux and heat, and on military mirrors used for...atI i :-a;t ;oil Cutiponlit -1of th >na"Cl I I C ’k lig ht cani be indi(ependent iv measured. 12 The scattering levels of most of the studied mirrors

Needs, Effectiveness, and Gap Assessment for Key A-10C Missions: An Overview of Findings

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-01

weapons, further decreasing capacity. The GPS-guided SDB I ( GBU - 39 ) and the multimode SDB II ( GBU -53) begin to be highly useful in these circumstances...fairly close to friendly forces.8 It is specifically designed for use against moving targets; a Link 16 datalink permits target updates in flight, if...not jammed, and a laser-guidance mode allows it to be guided to specific targets if a JTAC is available to provide laser designation . It also has

High-energy laser tactical decision aid (HELTDA) for mission planning and predictive avoidance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burley, Jarred L.; Fiorino, Steven T.; Randall, Robb M.; Bartell, Richard J.; Cusumano, Salvatore J.

2012-06-01

This study demonstrates the development of a high energy laser tactical decision aid (HELTDA) by the AFIT/CDE for mission planning High Energy Laser (HEL) weapon system engagements as well as centralized, decentralized, or hybrid predictive avoidance (CPA/DPA/HPA) assessments. Analyses of example HEL mission engagements are described as well as how mission planners are expected to employ the software. Example HEL engagement simulations are based on geographic location and recent/current atmospheric weather conditions. The atmospheric effects are defined through the AFIT/CDE Laser Environmental Effects Definition and Reference (LEEDR) model or the High Energy Laser End-to-End Operational Simulation (HELEEOS) model upon which the HELTDA is based. These models enable the creation of vertical profiles of temperature, pressure, water vapor content, optical turbulence, and atmospheric particulates and hydrometeors as they relate to line-by-line layer extinction coefficient magnitude at wavelengths from the UV to the RF. Seasonal and boundary layer variations (summer/winter) and time of day variations for a range of relative humidity percentile conditions are considered to determine optimum efficiency in a specific environment. Each atmospheric particulate/hydrometeor is evaluated based on its wavelength-dependent forward and off-axis scattering characteristics and absorption effects on the propagating environment to and beyond the target. In addition to realistic vertical profiles of molecular and aerosol absorption and scattering, correlated optical turbulence profiles in probabilistic (percentile) format are included. Numerical weather model forecasts are incorporated in the model to develop comprehensive understanding of HEL weapon system performance.

Laser Induced Damage in Optical Materials: 1980.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-10-01

is used to describe microplastic strain resulting from short duration loading, and the term microcreep refers to time dependent strains of small...effectively, and the maximum temperature rise will thus be at the Work supported by Naval Sea Systems Command, PflS-405, and Naval Weapons Center

Design and Analysis of Megawatt Class Free Electron Laser Weapons

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

accelerating structure. The SRF linear accelerator stores RF fields within its niobium cavities. Superconductors require less average RF power than...is needed to cool the superconductor for the SRF linear accelerator. A current outstanding research topic is the RF frequency to use for the SRF

High-energy laser-summator based on Raman scattering principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eugeniy Mikhalovich, Zemskov; Zarubin, Peter Vasilievich; Cook, Joung

2013-02-01

This paper is a summary of the history, theory, and development efforts of summator, an all-in-one device that coherently combines multiple high-power laser beams, lowers the beam divergence, and shifts the wavelength based on stimulated Raman scattering principle in USSR from early 1960s to late 1970s. This was a part of the Terra-3 program, which was an umbrella program of highly classified high-energy laser weapons development efforts. Some parts of the Terra-3 program, specifically the terminal missile defense portion, were declassified recently, including the information on summator development efforts.

Overview of laser systems for the Orion facility at the AWE.

PubMed

Hopps, Nicholas; Danson, Colin; Duffield, Stuart; Egan, David; Elsmere, Stephen; Girling, Mark; Harvey, Ewan; Hillier, David; Norman, Michael; Parker, Stefan; Treadwell, Paul; Winter, David; Bett, Thomas

2013-05-20

The commissioning of the Orion laser facility at the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) in the UK has recently been completed. The facility is a twelve beam Nd:glass-based system for studying high energy density physics. It consists of ten frequency-tripled beam-lines operating with nanosecond pulses, synchronized with two beam-lines with subpicosecond pulses, each capable of delivering 500 J to target. One of the short pulse beams has the option of frequency doubling, at reduced aperture, to yield up to 100 J at 527 nm in a subpicosecond pulse with high temporal contrast. An extensive array of target diagnostics is provided. This article describes the laser design and commissioning and presents key performance data of the facility's laser systems.

Detection technique of targets for missile defense system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Hua-ling; Deng, Jia-hao; Cai, Ke-rong

2009-11-01

Ballistic missile defense system (BMDS) is a weapon system for intercepting enemy ballistic missiles. It includes ballistic-missile warning system, target discrimination system, anti-ballistic-missile guidance systems, and command-control communication system. Infrared imaging detection and laser imaging detection are widely used in BMDS for surveillance, target detection, target tracking, and target discrimination. Based on a comprehensive review of the application of target-detection techniques in the missile defense system, including infrared focal plane arrays (IRFPA), ground-based radar detection technology, 3-dimensional imaging laser radar with a photon counting avalanche photodiode (APD) arrays and microchip laser, this paper focuses on the infrared and laser imaging detection techniques in missile defense system, as well as the trends for their future development.

How to Reduce the Threat of Terrorism.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beres, Louis Rene

1986-01-01

Maintains that the answer to terrorism lies not in higher fences, laser weapons, or expanded commando forces, but in improved understanding of the linkages between U.S. foreign policy and anti-American terrorism. Reviews geopolitical developments, including international law, and concludes that U.S. safety from terrorism will depend upon our…

Laser induced damage in optical materials: twelfth ASTM symposium.

PubMed

Bennett, H E; Glass, A J; Guenther, A H; Newnam, B

1981-09-01

The twelfth annual Symposium on Optical Materials for High Power Lasers (Boulder Damage Symposium) was held at the National Bureau of Standards in Boulder, Colorado, 30 Sept.-l Oct., 1980. The symposium was held under the auspices of ASTM Committee F-l, Subcommittee on Laser Standards, with the joint sponsorship of NBS, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Department of Energy, the Office of Naval Research, and the Air Force Office of Scientific research. Over 150 scientists attended the symposium, including representatives of the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and West Germany. The symposium was divided into sessions concerning materials and measurements, mirrors and surfaces, thin films, and finally fundamental mechanisms. As in previous years, the emphasis of the papers presented at the symposium was directed toward new frontiers and new developments. Particular emphasis was given to materials for high power systems. The wavelength range of prime interest was from 10.6 microm to the UV region. Highlights included surface characterization, thin film-substrate boundaries, and advances in fundamental laser-matter threshold interactions and mechanisms. The scaling of damage thresholds with pulse duration, focal area, and wavelength was discussed in detail. Harold E. Bennett of the Naval Weapons Center, Alexander J. Glass of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Arthur H. Guenther of the Air Force Weapons Laboratory, and Brian E. Newnam of the Los Alamos National Laboratory were cochairmen of the symposium. The thirteenth annual symposium is scheduled for 17-18 Nov. 1981 at the National Bureau of Standards, Boulder, Colorado.

Laser Threat Analysis System (LTAS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pfaltz, John M.; Richardson, Christina E.; Ruiz, Abel; Barsalou, Norman; Thomas, Robert J.

2002-11-01

LTAS is a totally integrated modeling and simulation environment designed for the purpose of ascertaining the susceptibility of Air Force pilots and air crews to optical radiation threats. Using LTAS, mission planners can assess the operational impact of optically directed energy weapons and countermeasures. Through various scenarios, threat analysts are able to determine the capability of laser threats and their impact on operational missions including the air crew's ability to complete their mission effectively. Additionally, LTAS allows the risk of laser use on training ranges and the requirement for laser protection to be evaluated. LTAS gives mission planners and threat analysts complete control of the threat environment including threat parameter control and placement, terrain mapping (line-of-site), atmospheric conditions, and laser eye protection (LEP) selection. This report summarizes the design of the final version of LTAS, and the modeling methodologies implemented to accomplish analysis.

Technical challenges for the future of high energy lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LaFortune, K. N.; Hurd, R. L.; Fochs, S. N.; Rotter, M. D.; Pax, P. H.; Combs, R. L.; Olivier, S. S.; Brase, J. M.; Yamamoto, R. M.

2007-02-01

The Solid-State, Heat-Capacity Laser (SSHCL) program at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is a multi-generation laser development effort scalable to the megawatt power levels with current performance approaching 100 kilowatts. This program is one of many designed to harness the power of lasers for use as directed energy weapons. There are many hurdles common to all of these programs that must be overcome to make the technology viable. There will be a in-depth discussion of the general issues facing state-of-the-art high energy lasers and paths to their resolution. Despite the relative simplicity of the SSHCL design, many challenges have been uncovered in the implementation of this particular system. An overview of these and their resolution are discussed. The overall system design of the SSHCL, technological strengths and weaknesses, and most recent experimental results will be presented.

The High Altitude Balloon Experiment demonstration of acquisition, tracking, and pointing technologies (HABE-ATP)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dimiduk, D.; Caylor, M.; Williamson, D.; Larson, L.

1995-01-01

The High Altitude Balloon Experiment demonstration of Acquisition, Tracking, and Pointing (HABE-ATP) is a system built around balloon-borne payload which is carried to a nominal 26-km altitude. The goal is laser tracking thrusting theater and strategic missiles, and then pointing a surrogate laser weapon beam, with performance levels end a timeline traceable to operational laser weapon system requirements. This goal leads to an experiment system design which combines hardware from many technology areas: an optical telescope and IR sensors; an advanced angular inertial reference; a flexible multi-level of actuation digital control system; digital tracking processors which incorporate real-time image analysis and a pulsed, diode-pumped solid state tracking laser. The system components have been selected to meet the overall experiment goals of tracking unmodified boosters at 50- 200 km range. The ATP system on HABE must stabilize and control a relative line of sight between the platform and the unmodified target booster to a 1 microrad accuracy. The angular pointing reference system supports both open loop and closed loop track modes; GPS provides absolute position reference. The control system which positions the line of sight for the ATP system must sequence through accepting a state vector handoff, closed-loop passive IR acquisition, passive IR intermediate fine track, active fine track, and then finally aimpoint determination and maintenance modes. Line of sight stabilization to fine accuracy levels is accomplished by actuating wide bandwidth fast steering mirrors (FSM's). These control loops off-load large-amplitude errors to the outer gimbal in order to remain within the limited angular throw of the FSM's. The SWIR acquisition and MWIR intermediate fine track sensors (both PtSi focal planes) image the signature of the rocket plume. After Hard Body Handover (HBHO), active fine tracking is conducted with a visible focal plane viewing the laser-illuminated target rocket body. The track and fire control performance must be developed to the point that an aimpoint can be selected, maintained, and then track performance scored with a low-power 'surrogate' weapon beam. Extensive instrumentation monitors not only the optical sensors and the video data, but all aspects of each of the experiment subsystems such as the control system, the experiment flight vehicle, and the tracker. Because the system is balloon-borne and recoverable, it is expected to fly many times during its development program.

Study on laser and infrared attenuation performance of carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xiang-cui; Liu, Qing-hai; Dai, Meng-yan; Cheng, Xiang; Fang, Guo-feng; Zhang, Tong; Liu, Haifeng

2014-11-01

In recent years, the weapon systems of laser and infrared (IR) imaging guidance have been widely used in modern warfare because of their high precision and strong anti-interference. However, military smoke, a rapid and effective passive jamming method, can effectively counteract the attack of precision-guided weapons by their scattering and absorbing effects. The traditional smoke has good visible light (0.4-0.76μm) obscurant performance, but hardly any effects to other electromagnetic wave bands while the weapon systems of laser and IR imaging guidance usually work in broad band, including the near-infrared (1-3μm), middle-infrared (3-5μm), far-infrared (8-14μm), and so on. Accordingly, exploiting new effective obscurant materials has attracted tremendous interest worldwide nowadays. As is known, the nano-structured materials have lots of unique properties comparing with the traditional materials suggesting that they might be the perfect alternatives to solve the problems above. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are well-ordered, all-carbon hollow graphitic nano-structured materials with a high aspect ratio, lengths from several hundred nanometers to several millimeters. CNTs possess many unique intrinsic physical-chemical properties and are investigated in many areas reported by the previous studies. However, no application research about CNTs in smoke technology field is reported yet. In this paper, the attenuation performances of CNTs smoke to laser and IR were assessed in 20m3 smoke chamber. The testing wavebands employed in experiments are 1.06μm and 10.6μm laser, 3-5μm and 8-14μm IR radiation. The main parameters were obtained included the attenuation rate, transmission rate, mass extinction coefficient, etc. The experimental results suggest that CNTs smoke exhibits excellent attenuation ability to the broadband IR radiation. Their mass extinction coefficients are all above 1m2·g-1. Nevertheless, the mass extinction coefficients vary with the sampling time and smoke particles concentrations, even in the same testing waveband. With the time going the mass extinction coefficients will increase gradually. Based on the above results, theoretical calculations are also carried out for further exploitations. In general, CNTs smoke behaves excellent attenuation ability toward laser and IR under the experimental conditions. Therefore, they have great potentials to develop new smoke obscurant materials which could effectively interfere with broadband IR radiation including 1.06μm, 10.6μm, 3-5μm and 8-12μm IR waveband.

Laser eye injuries.

PubMed

Barkana, Y; Belkin, M

2000-01-01

Laser instruments are used in many spheres of human activity, including medicine, industry, laboratory research, entertainment, and, notably, the military. This widespread use of lasers has resulted in many accidental injuries. Injuries are almost always retinal, because of the concentration of visible and near-infrared radiation on the retina. The retina is therefore the body tissue most vulnerable to laser radiation. The nature and severity of this type of retinal injury is determined by multiple laser-related and eye-related factors, the most important being the duration and amount of energy delivered and the retinal location of the lesion. The clinical course of significant retinal laser injuries is characterized by sudden loss of vision, often followed by marked improvement over a few weeks, and occasionally severe late complications. Medical and surgical treatment is limited. Laser devices hazardous to the human eye are currently in widespread use by armed forces. Furthermore, lasers may be employed specifically for visual incapacitation on future battlefields. Adherence to safety practices effectively prevents accidental laser-induced ocular injuries. However, there is no practical way to prevent injuries that are maliciously inflicted, as expected from laser weapons.

Laser-based firing systems for prompt initiation of secondary explosives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meeks, Kent D.; Setchell, Robert E.

1993-01-01

Motivated by issues of weapon safety and security, laser based firing systems for promptly initiating secondary explosives have been under active development at Sandia National Laboratories for more than four years. Such a firing system consists of miniaturized, Q-switched, solid-state laser, optical detonators, optical safety switches, and elements for splitting, coupling, and transmitting the laser output. Potential system applications pose significant challenges in terms of server mechanical and thermal environments and packaging constraints, while requiring clear demonstration of safety enhancements. The Direct Optical Initiation (DOI) Program at Sandia is addressing these challenges through progress development phases during which the design, fabrication, and testing of prototype hardware is aimed at more difficult application requirements. A brief history of the development program, and a summary of current and planned activities, will be presented.

A new gated x-ray detector for the Orion laser facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, David D.; Aragonez, Robert; Archuleta, Thomas; Fatherley, Valerie; Hsu, Albert; Jorgenson, Justin; Mares, Danielle; Oertel, John; Oades, Kevin; Kemshall, Paul; Thomas, Phillip; Young, Trevor; Pederson, Neal

2012-10-01

Gated X-Ray Detectors (GXD) are considered the work-horse target diagnostic of the laser based inertial confinement fusion (ICF) program. Recently, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has constructed three new GXDs for the Orion laser facility at the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) in the United Kingdom. What sets these three new instruments apart from what has previously been constructed for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is: improvements in detector head microwave transmission lines, solid state embedded hard drive and updated control software, and lighter air box design and other incremental mechanical improvements. In this paper we will present the latest GXD design enhancements and sample calibration data taken on the Trident laser facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory using the newly constructed instruments.

Nd-YAG Laser Treatment for Tracheobronchial Obstruction

PubMed Central

Lee, Yu-Chin; Chiang, Kuo-Hwa

1996-01-01

The Nd-YAG laser has good tissue penetration and coagulation effects thus has become an important weapon for photoresection of tracheobronchial obstructive lesions since 1980. Treatment of benign lesions including benign tumors and scar tissues using the Nd-YAG laser has good results. In the treatment of malignant tumors however, it has a lower effectivity rate when compared to benign lesions. From July 1984 to September 1995, a total of 65 patients were treated with Nd-YAG laser for tracheobronchial obstruction. There were 32 (49%) malignant tumors and 33 (51%) benign lesions. 116 resections were performed in 48 patients using the non-contact Nd-YAG laser (MBB, Medilas 2) before 1992. Thereafter, another 41 resections were performed in 17 cases using contact Nd-YAG laser (SLT, CL-X). The overall effectivity rate was 60%. The effectivity rate for benign lesions was 81.3% and 39.4% for malignant tumor. The effectivity rate between non-contact and contact Nd-YAG laser was not significantly different. PMID:18493424

Nd-YAG Laser Treatment for Tracheobronchial Obstruction.

PubMed

Perng, R P; Lee, Y C; Chiang, K H

1996-01-01

The Nd-YAG laser has good tissue penetration and coagulation effects thus has become an important weapon for photoresection of tracheobronchial obstructive lesions since 1980.Treatment of benign lesions including benign tumors and scar tissues using the Nd-YAG laser has good results. In the treatment of malignant tumors however, it has a lower effectivity rate when compared to benign lesions. From July 1984 to September 1995, a total of 65 patients were treated with Nd-YAG laser for tracheobronchial obstruction. There were 32 (49%) malignant tumors and 33 (51%) benign lesions. 116 resections were performed in 48 patients using the non-contact Nd-YAG laser (MBB, Medilas 2) before 1992. Thereafter, another 41 resections were performed in 17 cases using contact Nd-YAG laser (SLT, CL-X). The overall effectivity rate was 60%. The effectivity rate for benign lesions was 81.3% and 39.4% for malignant tumor. The effectivity rate between non-contact and contact Nd-YAG laser was not significantly different.

High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office: a mission overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seeley, Don D.; Slater, John M.

2004-10-01

The High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office (HEL-JTO) was established in 2000 for the purpose of developing and executing a comprehensive investment strategy for HEL science and technology that would underpin weapons development. The JTO is currently sponsoring 80 programs across industry, academia, and government agencies with a budget of approximately $60 million. The competitively awarded programs are chosen to advance the current state of the art in HEL technology and fill technology gaps, thus providing a broad capability that can be harvested in acquisition programs by the military services.

Megawatt-class free-electron laser concept for shipboard self-defense

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todd, Alan M. M.; Colson, William B.; Neil, George R.

1997-05-01

An efficient MW-class free electron laser (FEL) directed energy weapon (DEW) system holds promise for satisfying shipboard self-defense (SSD) requirements on future generations of Navy vessels because of the potential for high- power operation and the accessibility to all IR wavelengths. In order to meet shipboard packaging and prime power constraints, the power efficiency and high real-estate gradient achievable in a FEL driven by a superconducting rf accelerator is attractive. Configuration options and the key development issues for such a system are described.

Defense Science and Technology Success Stories

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

Active Auroral Research Project ( HAARP ) ........................................................................136 Weapons Strategic Illuminator Laser...drawing 136 Service/Agency Background: The High Frequency Active Auroral Research Project ( HAARP ) developed new experimental research capabilities and...Appropriation Act provided funds for the creation of HAARP , jointly managed by the Air Force Research Laboratory and the Office of Naval Research to exploit

Joint Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-17

the GCC must evaluate the need for force protection support following the guidelines of DOD Instruction 3020.41, Contractor Personnel Authorized to...EA electronic attack EM electromagnetic EP emergency preparedness EW electronic warfare FCC functional combatant commander FDO flexible deterrent...their primary destructive mechanism (lasers, radio frequency weapons, particle beams). b. electronic protection. That division of electronic warfare

Performance modeling of the effects of aperture phase error, turbulence, and thermal blooming on tiled subaperture systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leakeas, Charles L.; Capehart, Shay R.; Bartell, Richard J.; Cusumano, Salvatore J.; Whiteley, Matthew R.

2011-06-01

Laser weapon systems comprised of tiled subapertures are rapidly emerging in importance in the directed energy community. Performance models of these laser weapon systems have been developed from numerical simulations of a high fidelity wave-optics code called WaveTrain which is developed by MZA Associates. System characteristics such as mutual coherence, differential jitter, and beam quality rms wavefront error are defined for a focused beam on the target. Engagement scenarios are defined for various platform and target altitudes, speeds, headings, and slant ranges along with the natural wind speed and heading. Inputs to the performance model include platform and target height and velocities, Fried coherence length, Rytov number, isoplanatic angle, thermal blooming distortion number, Greenwood and Tyler frequencies, and atmospheric transmission. The performance model fit is based on power-in-the-bucket (PIB) values against the PIB from the simulation results for the vacuum diffraction-limited spot size as the bucket. The goal is to develop robust performance models for aperture phase error, turbulence, and thermal blooming effects in tiled subaperture systems.

Laser induced damage in optical materials: eleventh ASTM symposium.

PubMed

Bennett, H E; Glass, A J; Guenther, A H; Newnam, B

1980-07-15

The eleventh Symposium on Optical Materials for High-Power Lasers (Boulder Damage Symposium) was held at the National Bureau of Standards in Boulder, Colorado, 30-31 October 1979. The symposium was held under the auspices of ASTM Committee F-1, Subcommittee on Laser Standards, with the joint sponsorship of NBS, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Department of Energy, and the Office of Naval Research. About 150 scientists attended the symposium, including representatives of the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Japan, West Germany, and Denmark. The symposium was divided into sessions concerning transparent optical materials and the measurement of their properties, mirrors and surfaces, thin film characteristics, thin film damage, considerations for high-power systems, and finally theory and breakdown. As in previous years, the emphasis of the papers presented at the symposium was directed toward new frontiers and new developments. Particular emphasis was given to materials for high-power apparatus. The wavelength range of prime interest was from 10.6 microm to the UV region. Highlights included surface characterization, thin film-substrate boundaries, and advances in fundamental laser-matter threshold interactions and mechanisms. The scaling of damage thresholds with pulse duration, focal area, and wavelength was discussed in detail. Harold E. Bennett of the Naval Weapons Center, Alexander J. Glass of the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory, Arthur H. Guenther of the Air Force Weapons Laboratory, and Brian E. Newnam of the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory were cochairpersons. The twelfth annual symposium is scheduled for 30 September-1 October 1980 at the National Bureau of Standards, Boulder, Colorado.

Research for the jamming mechanism of high-frequency laser to the laser seeker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Xingyuan; Zhang, Haiyang; Wang, Yunping; Feng, Shuang; Zhao, Changming

2013-08-01

High-frequency laser will be able to enter the enemy laser signal processing systems without encoded identification and a copy. That makes it one of the research directions of new interference sources. In order to study the interference mechanism of high-frequency laser to laser guided weapons. According to the principle of high-frequency laser interference, a series of related theoretical models such as a semi-active laser seeker coded identification model, a time door model, multi-signal processing model and a interference signal modulation processing model are established. Then seeker interfere with effective 3σ criterion is proposed. Based on this, the study of the effect of multi-source interference and signal characteristics of the effect of high repetition frequency laser interference are key research. According to the simulation system testing, the results show that the multi-source interference and interference signal frequency modulation can effectively enhance the interference effect. While the interference effect of the interference signal amplitude modulation is not obvious. The research results will provide the evaluation of high-frequency laser interference effect and provide theoretical references for high-frequency laser interference system application.

Legal and Political Implications of Offensive Actions from and Against the Space Segment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Angelis, Iole M.

2002-01-01

Hundreds of satellites now present in space benefit the people of the world economically, scientifically and by their contribution to international security. So far, activities in space have proceeded without much conflict. Means have been found for regulation and agreement to minimize interference in the radio spectrum, while making more efficient use of limited spectrum resources. The Outer Space Treaty bars the stationing of nuclear weapons in space, or other weapons of mass destruction. Nations are responsible for damages that their space activities may cause to others, perhaps including destruction of the space assets of another nation. Today, maintaining the peaceful use of space is becoming more complicated by the privatisation of the notion of security by commercial actors and by the emerging of high technology non-state threats, that are not bind by international treaties. SPACE WEAPONS The Outer Space Treaty had been adopted to avoid the possible denial of peaceful uses of outer space, and because, technically speaking, jeopardizing a satellite was a difficult task to perform. For example, an orbiting laser might take hours or days for the Earth to rotate and the laser to be at an appropriate point in its orbit to threaten a target on the ground or in the air. Conversely, a substantial number of such weapons in space might be able to destroy targets within minutes of the command to do so, if the targets were visible and not below clouds. It is currently very difficult to oppose space weapons. For this reason, they could be significantly effective against an adversary. However, there are several obvious ways to counter nation controlled space-based weapons: anti-satellite systems, economic and technological blockade and an international legal system that forbids/restricts such weapons. The problem remains for non-state international actors which are not bound by international treaties. For this reason, the principle established by the United States to tie a common responsibility among the non state-actor Al-Quaida and the State of Afghanistan - that supported and hosted such organisation - is an exemple that deserves special consideration. ANTISATELLITE WEAPONS In a world in which Russia and the United States are no longer enemies, no individual nation has a strong motivation to develop and deploy space weapons for solely military purposes. Such weapons could be seen as inextricably tied to the purpose of achieving space dominance not only for military reasons - achieving full spectrum dominance thanks to a superior information management - but also for economical and political reasons. It is important to remind that the military use of outer space has both stabilizing and destabilizing potential. Military and civilian satellites perform functions that contribute to treaties verification, transparency, confidence building and nuclear deterrence. Putting weapons in space - that is a military use of outer-space - would threaten the instruments and sensors deployed into orbit to monitor potential enemies, control the compliance to disarmament treaties, detect ballistic missile launches, and maintain reliable communications. A sudden attack against such systems would lead to a main international crisis. In this context, in February 2000 the Chinese delegation to the United Nations Conference on Disarmament circulated a paper identifying a present and pressing necessity to prevent an arms race in outer space. A treaty forestalling the use of any kind of weapons in space, argued the delegation, would greatly support global peace and security." Moscow agreed with Beijing on this subject. CONCLUSIONS The deployment of space weapons will bring negative consequences to the international image of the country that does so, but is it an inevitable process? What tools can the international community do to prevent the escalation of conflicts into the outer space? From an international legal perspective, the development and the deployment of strategic weapons, kinetic energy weapons and directed energy weapons are already contained within existing rules and such issues are being actively addressed by the international community. At the same time, the use of cyberwar and electronic warfare to counter space technology not only encounters a void of international rules, but it is a question that is very rarely taken into consideration while addressing to the issues of preventing space warfare. Finally, these techniques are easily available to non-state organisations - terrorist organisations and commercial companies - and individuals. In conclusion, the issues related to offensive actions towards and from space shall be taken into consideration not only in a military perspective, but also in a political perspective - terrorist actions against the space segment - and from an economical point of view.

New combat laser and ballistic eye protection goggles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belkin, Michael

1996-04-01

Up to 10% of all combat casualties involve eye injuries which are becoming more severe, bilateral and likely to lead to a retained intraocular foreign body. The modern battlefield is permeated with laser radiation from range finders, target designators and perhaps laser weapons aimed at producing visual incapacitation. In future wars, therefore, the likelihood of eye injuries is very high. We sought to devise means to protect the eye from military relevant injurious agents. Almost all ballistic injuries can be prevented by using polycarbonate goggles. They must not, however, interfere with the soldier's functions such as the use of binoculars or limit his visual fields. These problems are not insurmountable and we shall demonstrate new goggles design which we believe will be acceptable to the troops. The solution to laser protection is more difficult. For that purpose the goggles include outserts filters for various groups of laser wavelengths. The soldier will use the appropriate filter according to a reading from a laser detector which will indicate which filter is protective against the wavelength detected.

Celebrating 50 Years of Laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rebel, Heinigerd

2010-11-01

When thinking of an innovation that has truly changed our world, it is the laser. Right after discovery back in 1960, it is immediately propelled to a public star. People loved the mystery around this new kind of light. It was soon recognized as a symbol of our entry into the future: The Laser Age has started. Newspapers speculated about ``death rays'' as new weapons. It did not take long time until it appeared in Science fiction movies. However reality was much more beneficial and even more diverse. This device has managed to exceed the wildest predictions of the early laser pioneers when it comes to its applications. Today lasers are not a weird scientist's toy, but are commonly used in our everyday life. Of course, nothing of that was foreseen in the early 1950s. Important fundamentals of lasers have been laid already in 1917 by Albert Einstein, introducing the Einstein coefficient of stimulated emission, and subsequent experimental work by Rudolf Ladenburg, Willis Lamb, Alfred Kastler and others.

Coilable single crystal fibers of doped-YAG for high power laser applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maxwell, Gisele; Soleimani, Nazila; Ponting, Bennett; Gebremichael, Eminet

2013-05-01

Single crystal fibers are an intermediate between laser crystals and doped glass fibers. They can combine the advantages of both by guiding laser light and matching the efficiencies found in bulk crystals, making them ideal candidates for high-power laser and fiber laser applications. In particular, a very interesting feature of single crystal fiber is that they can generate high power in the eye-safe range (Er:YAG) with a high efficiency, opening new possibilities for portable directed energy weapons. This work focuses on the growth of a flexible fiber with a core of dopant (Er, Nd, Yb, etc…) that will exhibit good waveguiding properties. Direct growth or a combination of growth and cladding experiments are described. We have, to date, demonstrated the growth of a flexible foot long 45 microns doped YAG fiber. Scattering loss measurements at visible wavelengths along with dopant profile characterization are also presented. Laser characterization for these fibers is in progress.

Celebrating 50 Years of Laser

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rebel, Heinigerd

2010-11-24

When thinking of an innovation that has truly changed our world, it is the laser. Right after discovery back in 1960, it is immediately propelled to a public star. People loved the mystery around this new kind of light. It was soon recognized as a symbol of our entry into the future: The Laser Age has started. Newspapers speculated about ''death rays'' as new weapons. It did not take long time until it appeared in Science fiction movies. However reality was much more beneficial and even more diverse. This device has managed to exceed the wildest predictions of the earlymore » laser pioneers when it comes to its applications. Today lasers are not a weird scientist's toy, but are commonly used in our everyday life.Of course, nothing of that was foreseen in the early 1950s. Important fundamentals of lasers have been laid already in 1917 by Albert Einstein, introducing the Einstein coefficient of stimulated emission, and subsequent experimental work by Rudolf Ladenburg, Willis Lamb, Alfred Kastler and others.« less

Development of highly compact and low power consumption athermal military laser designators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sijan, A.

2012-10-01

The utility of military lasers, particularly in the area of laser designation for laser-guided weapons, is well understood. Laser systems based on Nd:YAG have been fielded since the 1980's and over the last three decades have introduced incremental technology steps to improve performance and weight. The most recent technology step has been the introduction of athermal lasers based on laser-diode pumping of Nd:YAG and products are now emerging for use on the battlefield. The technical performance, efficiency, size, weight and power for these lasers, has been key to driving the new production designs. In this paper, we review the development of the laser designs and their introduction since the advent of laser designation. In particular, we compare the relative performance and characteristics over the evolution of fielded laser designators. Moreover, we will review the key building blocks for the design of athermal lasers and describe some critical design issues for engineering and productionisation of a military laser system, including removal of thermal lensing, novel diode-pumping schemes and robustness over the environment. These will be exemplified using results from the development of the SELEX Galileo Type 163 Laser Target Designators. These will cover not only technical performance, power and efficiency, but also thermal management, mass, volume, cost and overall complexity for manufacture.

Experimental Design of a UCAV-Based High-Energy Laser Weapon

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-01

propagation. The Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology is then applied to determine the significance of the UCAV-HEL design parameters and their... Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology is then applied to determine the significance of the UCAV-HEL design parameters and their effect on the...73 A. DESIGN OF EXPERIMENTS METHODOLOGY .............................73 B. OPERATIONAL CONCEPT

Annual Industrial Capabilities Report to Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-02-01

suspension systems is not a concern. Deformable Mirrors (September 1998) The atmosphere, temperature variations, and vibration distort optical system...images. Deformable mirrors can compensate for these effects in real time. They are used in surveillance optics, laser weapons, and astronomical telescopes...This assessment investigated the availability of current and potential deformable mirror producers, and possible alternative technologies. The

Solar photovoltaic research and development program of the Air Force Aero Propulsion Laboratory. [silicon solar cell applicable to satellite power systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wise, J.

1979-01-01

Progress is reported in the following areas: laser weapon effects, solar silicon solar cell concepts, and high voltage hardened, high power system technology. Emphasis is placed on solar cells with increased energy conversion efficiency and radiation resistance characteristics for application to satellite power systems.

Challenges of laser beam propagation near/within marine boundary layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manzur, Tariq; Katz, Richard A.; Olson, Joshua

2015-05-01

Marine atmospheric condition plays a critical role on imaging, laser beam propagation, and optical communication of the commercial and military platform. In Military platforms, ships and sailors must be able to defend and communicate with other maritime platform in sometimes volatile and hostile regions around the globe. Naval combatants need defensive and offensive capabilities against a variety of potential threats - many coming at low altitude, UAV, USV etc. High energy lasers (HELs) are currently in development, which have sufficient power levels (~100 kW) to destroy/disable most types of threats. Though target engagement and energy delivery are challenging, a HEL weapon can engage targets at the speed of light, does not require physical ammunition, and is able to run for hours at a time.

Comparative hazard evaluation of near-infrared diode lasers.

PubMed

Marshall, W J

1994-05-01

Hazard evaluation methods from various laser protection standards differ when applied to extended-source, near-infrared lasers. By way of example, various hazard analyses are applied to laser training systems, which incorporate diode lasers, specifically those that assist in training military or law enforcement personnel in the proper use of weapons by simulating actual firing by the substitution of a beam of near-infrared energy for bullets. A correct hazard evaluation of these lasers is necessary since simulators are designed to be directed toward personnel during normal use. The differences among laser standards are most apparent when determining the hazard class of a laser. Hazard classification is based on a comparison of the potential exposures with the maximum permissible exposures in the 1986 and 1993 versions of the American National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers, Z136.1, and the accessible emission limits of the federal laser product performance standard. Necessary safety design features of a particular system depend on the hazard class. The ANSI Z136.1-1993 standard provides a simpler and more accurate hazard assessment of low-power, near-infrared, diode laser systems than the 1986 ANSI standard. Although a specific system is evaluated, the techniques described can be readily applied to other near-infrared lasers or laser training systems.

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Fiscal Year 1982 Research & Development Program. Summary Statement by Dr. Robert R. Fossum, Director Before the Research & Development Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-12

feasibility of a laser suitable for space opera- tion. Its objective is to demonstrate tte laser device technology in 11-37 tion, Its i extracting a high power...acoustic signal processing testbed will officially transfer to the Navy Undersea Surveillance Office at the end of FY 1982. This gives the Navy a...advanced undersea vehicle programs. 2. Air Vehicles and Weapons This addresses innovative concepts such as the X-Wing and the Forward Swept Wing

Soldier systems sensor fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brubaker, Kathryne M.

1998-08-01

This paper addresses sensor fusion and its applications in emerging Soldier Systems integration and the unique challenges associated with the human platform. Technology that,provides the highest operational payoff in a lightweight warrior system must not only have enhanced capabilities, but have low power components resulting in order of magnitude reductions coupled with significant cost reductions. These reductions in power and cost will be achieved through partnership with industry and leveraging of commercial state of the art advancements in microelectronics and power sources. As new generation of full solution fire control systems (to include temperature, wind and range sensors) and target acquisition systems will accompany a new generation of individual combat weapons and upgrade existing weapon systems. Advanced lightweight thermal, IR, laser and video senors will be used for surveillance, target acquisition, imaging and combat identification applications. Multifunctional sensors will provide embedded training features in combat configurations allowing the soldier to 'train as he fights' without the traditional cost and weight penalties associated with separate systems. Personal status monitors (detecting pulse, respiration rate, muscle fatigue, core temperature, etc.) will provide commanders and highest echelons instantaneous medical data. Seamless integration of GPS and dead reckoning (compass and pedometer) and/or inertial sensors will aid navigation and increase position accuracy. Improved sensors and processing capability will provide earlier detection of battlefield hazards such as mines, enemy lasers and NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) agents. Via the digitized network the situational awareness database will automatically be updated with weapon, medical, position and battlefield hazard data. Soldier Systems Sensor Fusion will ultimately establish each individual soldier as an individual sensor on the battlefield.

Preparation and properties on hollow nano-structured smoke material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xiang-cui; Dai, Meng-yan; Fang, Guo-feng; Shi, Wei-dong; Cheng, Xiang; Liu, Hai-feng; Zhang, Tong

2013-09-01

In recent years, the weapon systems of laser guidance and infrared (IR) imaging guidance have been widely used in modern warfare because of their high precision and strong anti-interference. Notwithstanding, military smoke, as a rapid and effective passive jamming means, can effectively counteract the attack of enemy precision-guided weapons by scattering and absorbability. Conventional smoke has good attenuation capability only to visible light (0.4-0.76 μm), but hardly any effect to other electromagnetic wave band. The weapon systems of laser guidance and IR imaging guidance usually work in broad band, including near IR (1-3 μm), middle IR (3-5 μm), far IR (8-14 μm), and so on. Accordingly, exploiting and using new efficient obscurant materials, which is one of the important factors that develop smoke technology, have become a focus and attracted more interests around the world. Then nano-structured materials that are developing very quickly have turned into our new choice. Hollow nano-structured materials (HNSM) have many special properties because of their nano-size wall-thickness and sub-micron grain-size. After a lot of HNSM were synthesized in this paper, their physical and chemical properties, including grain size, phase composition, microstructure, optical properties and resistivity were tested and analysed. Then the experimental results of the optical properties showed that HNSM exhibit excellent wave-absorbing ability in ultraviolet, visible and infrared regions. On the basis of the physicochemmical properties, HNSM are firstly applied in smoke technology field. And the obscuration performance of HNSM smoke was tested in smoke chamber. The testing waveband included 1.06μm and 10.6μm laser, 3-5μm and 8-14μm IR radiation. Then the main parameters were obtained, including the attenuation rate, the transmission rate, the mass extinction coefficient, the efficiency obscuring time, and the sedimentation rate, etc. The main parameters of HNSM smoke were contrasted in detail with graphite powder smoke agent. The results showed that HNSM smoke possesses better obscuration capability compared with the smoke performance of conventional materials (such as HC, RP, oil, carbon black, and graphite powder). Therefore, they are new smoke obscurant materials which can effectively interfere with broadband electromagnetic radiation, including 1.06 μm and 10.6 μm laser, 3-5 μm and 8-14 μm IR waveband.

HILL: The High-Intensity Laser Laboratory Core Team's Reply to Questions from the NNSA Experimental Facilities Panel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Albright, B J

2012-08-02

Question 1 - The type of physics regimes that HILL can access for weapons studies is quite interesting. The question that arises for the proposal team is what priority does this type of experimental data have versus data that can be obtained with NIF, and Z. How does HILL rank in priority compared to MARIE 1.0 in terms of the experimental data it will provide? We reiterate that isochoric heating experiments to be conducted with HILL are complementary to the high energy density physics experiments at NIF and Z and uniquely access states of matter that neither other facility canmore » access. It is our belief that HILL will enable several important questions, e.g., as related to mix morphology, radiation transfer from corrugated surfaces, and equations of state, to be run to ground through carefully diagnosed, 'unit-physics' experiments. Such experiments will substantially improve confidence in our computer models and provide a rigorous science basis for certification. Question 2 - A secondary question relates to the interests of LLNL and SNL in the physics that HILL can address. This should be spelled out clearly. I would like to see the other labs be part of the discussion regarding how important this capability would be if built. Both sister Labs have a keen interest in the physics enabled by high-intensity, high-energy lasers, as evinced by the Z Petawatt and NIF ARC upgrades to their signature facilities. LANL scientists have teamed with scientists from both Laboratories in high-intensity laser 'first experiments' envisioned for HILL and we fully intend to continue these profitable discussions going forward. In the preparation of the HILL proposal, feedback was solicited from the broader HEDP and weapons science communities. The consensus view was that HILL filled a critical gap and that there was a need for a facility like HILL to address outstanding questions in weapons science. It was recognized that co-location of HILL with a facility such as MaRIE 1.0, Z, NIF, or Omega may offer additional advantages and we would expect these to be explored and evaluated during the CD process. Question 3 - A laser/optics experts group should review this proposal to ensure the level of R&D is reasonable to provide a sufficient chance of success (>50%). In the preparation of the HILL proposal, we sent our proposal and cost estimates to laser designers/scientists across the complex. Though risks were identified with our design, the prevailing view of those we engaged was that the risks were appropriately represented by the TRL levels assigned and that the enabling R&D planned in our proposal was adequate for risk mitigation. Question 4 - More data and peer review is needed from its sister facilities around the world. It is our specific intent to conduct both scientific and technical workshops with the user community if the High Intensity Science field is further encouraged as part of the NNSA Roadmap. Question 5 - Does HILL have to be co-located with MARIE 1.0? Is that feasible from the point of view of TA-53 real estate? Multiple siting options were considered for HILL, including co-location with MaRIE 1.0 (the most cost-effective and flexible option), as well as in a separate, stand-alone building and in a retro-fitted existing building. The cost estimate included these contingencies and candidate locations for HILL in TA-53 were identified. There is actually significant space at TA-53 on the hill in the northeast end of the mesa. Question 6 - What would be the impact on the weapons program if this facility were NOT built? An inability to elucidate aspects of weapons science in the dense plasma regime and validate computer models for same. This will lead to reduced confidence in the computer tools used for certification. Question 7 - Will HILL allow some of the x-ray vulnerability studies proposed by SPARC? If so what does Sandia's vulnerability group think of this method versus SPARC. It is possible that some of the scope envisioned for SPARC could be achieved on HILL, although likely that the energy produced at HILL not being at all close to requirements. We would welcome these discussions with our SNL colleagues. Question 8 - The committee had the opinion that present laser facilities could better be modified to meet this mission need. HILL satisfies a mission need for rapid isochoric heating of materials into conditions relevant to boost with quantitative control of the variables. This is accomplished through particle generation and acceleration mechanisms that require ultra-short (sub-100 femtosecond, we estimate actually sub-30 femtosecond) laser pulses. To generate such very short pulses, high bandwidth is required in the laser system. However, such bandwidth is not possible with current high-energy glass laser systems, so new lasers must be built to meet this requirement.« less

3rd Offset Strategy 101: What It Is, What the Tech Focuses Are | DoDLive

Science.gov Websites

into layman's terms. The Sodium Guidestar at the Air Force Research Laboratory's Starfire Optical Range their own laser weapons systems. Air Force photo The Sodium Guidestar at the Air Force Research competitive, technological and operational advantages is not a purely quantitative contest vis-à-vis these

ManTech Affordability for Defense Weapon Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-11-01

the Virginia Class Submarine Development of Friction Stir Welding for Navy Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) Hull Components Procurement...Tile 2007 – Translational Friction Stir Welding 2006 – Engine Rotor Life Extension 2006 – Uncooled Focal Plane Array Producibility 2005 – Large...DDG 1000 with Hybrid Laser Arc Welding The Problem: T-Beam stiffeners, used extensively for decks, bulkheads, and other ship structures, are being

Defense Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) FY 1985.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-01-31

EO)/ INFRARED (IR) COUNTERMEASURES W CATEGORY: Exploratory Development DESCRIPTION: Analysis needs to be performed to determine how to counter weapon...MHz to 2 GHz. Electrically conducting surfaces of interest are cable shields and braids, and optically transparent (to visible and infrared ) screens...conjunction with a particular method of low temperature depositions from organometallics. 37 .. . -. . . . . . -67 - . ... . 43. TITLE: TUNABLE INFRARED LASER

USMC ISR: Preparing for the A2AD Threat

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-13

millimeter waves, high - power microwaves, lasers or electromagnetic pulses (Brimley 2013, 15). Replacing modern day munitions, directed- energy ...space and cyber capabilities” (JCS, 26). The precept further states the need to protect access to the electromagnetic spectrum. Given the high cost...is the “division of electronic warfare involving the use of electromagnetic , directed energy , or antiradiation weapons to attack personnel, facilities

Gaining New Military Capability: An Experiment in Concept Development.

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-01-01

Angeles Police Department ( LAPD ) were invited, at- tended, and made important contributions.1 ORGANIZING COG DISCUSSIONS We sought to structure COG...Terry Covington, RAND; Charles Duke, Los Angeles Police Department ; Gene Gritton, RAND; Thomas Karr, Lawrence Livermore Laboratory; LTC Will Irwin, USA...Munition Joint Requirements Oversight Council Joint Stand-off Weapon Joint Strategic Tracking and Radar System Laser radar Los Angeles Police

Considerations of a ship defense with a pulsed COIL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takehisa, K.

2015-10-01

Ship defense system with a pulsed COIL (Chemical Oxygen-Iodine Laser) has been considered. One of the greatest threats for battle ships and carriers in warfare are supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs). A countermeasure is considered to be a supersonic RAM (Rolling Airframe Missile) at first. A gun-type CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) should be used as the last line of defense. However since an ASCM can be detected at only 30-50km away due to radar horizon, a speed-of-light weapon is desirable as the first defense especially if the ASCM flies at >Mach 6. Our previous report explained several advantages of a giant pulse from a chemical oxygen laser (COL) to shoot down supersonic aircrafts. Since the first defense has the target distance of ~30km, the use of COIL is better considering its beam having high transmissivity in air. Therefore efficient operation of a giant-pulsed COIL has been investigated with rate-equation simulations. The simulation results indicate that efficient single-pass amplification can be expected. Also a design example of a giant-pulsed COIL MOPA (master oscillator and power amplifier) system has been shown, in which the output energy can be increased without limit.

The design of common aperture and multi-band optical system based on day light telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jiao; Wang, Ling; Zhang, Bo; Teng, Guoqi; Wang, Meng

2017-02-01

As the development of electro-optical weapon system, the technique of common path and multi-sensor are used popular, and becoming a trend. According to the requirement of miniaturization and lightweight for electro-optical stabilized sighting system, a day light telescope/television viewing-aim system/ laser ranger has been designed in this thesis, which has common aperture. Thus integration scheme of multi-band and common aperture has been adopted. A day light telescope has been presented, which magnification is 8, field of view is 6°, and distance of exit pupil is more than 20mm. For 1/3" CCD, television viewing-aim system which has 156mm focal length, has been completed. In addition, laser ranging system has been designed, with 10km raging distance. This paper outlines its principle which used day light telescope as optical reference of correcting the optical axis. Besides, by means of shared objective, reserved image with inverting prism and coating beam-splitting film on the inclined plane of the cube prism, the system has been applied to electro-optical weapon system, with high-resolution of imaging and high-precision ranging.

Design and realization of test system for testing parallelism and jumpiness of optical axis of photoelectric equipment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Sheng-bing; Chen, Zhen-xing; Qin, Shao-gang; Song, Chun-yan; Jiang, Yun-hong

2014-09-01

With the development of science and technology, photoelectric equipment comprises visible system, infrared system, laser system and so on, integration, information and complication are higher than past. Parallelism and jumpiness of optical axis are important performance of photoelectric equipment,directly affect aim, ranging, orientation and so on. Jumpiness of optical axis directly affect hit precision of accurate point damage weapon, but we lack the facility which is used for testing this performance. In this paper, test system which is used fo testing parallelism and jumpiness of optical axis is devised, accurate aim isn't necessary and data processing are digital in the course of testing parallelism, it can finish directly testing parallelism of multi-axes, aim axis and laser emission axis, parallelism of laser emission axis and laser receiving axis and first acuualizes jumpiness of optical axis of optical sighting device, it's a universal test system.

Atmospheric applications of high-energy lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cook, Joung R.

2005-03-01

It has been over forty years since the invention of the laser, which has inspired the imagination of scientists and science fiction writers alike. Many ideas have been realized, many still remain as dreams, and new ones are still being conceived. The High Energy Laser (HEL) has been associated with weapon applications during the past three decades. Much of the same technology can be directly applied to power beaming, laser propulsion, and other potential remote energy and power transfer applications. Economically, these application areas are becoming increasingly more viable. This paper reviews the evolutionarey history of the HEL device technologies. It points out the basic system components and layouts with associated key technologies that drive the effectiveness and efficiency of the system level performance. It describes the fundamental properties and wavelength dependencies of atmospheric propagation that in turn have become the prescription for wavelength properties that are desired from the device.

Atmospheric Propagation of High Energy Lasers and Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cook, Joung R.

2005-04-01

It has been over forty years since the invention of the laser, which has inspired the imagination of scientists and science fiction writers alike. Many ideas have been realized, still many remain as dreams, and new ones are still being conceived. The High Energy Laser (HEL) has been associated with weapon applications during the past three decades. Much of the same technology can be directly applied to power beaming, laser propulsion, and other potential remote energy and power transfer applications. Economically, these application areas are becoming increasingly more viable. This paper reviews the evolutionary history of the HEL device technologies. It points out the basic system components and layouts with associated key technologies that drive the effectiveness and efficiency of the system level performance. It describes the fundamental properties and wavelength dependencies of atmospheric propagation that in turn have become the prescription for wavelength properties that are desired from the device.

Laser pointers and aviation safety.

PubMed

Nakagawara, V B; Montgomery, R W

2000-10-01

Laser pointers have been used by teachers and lecturers for years to highlight key areas on charts and screens during visual presentations. When used in a responsible manner, laser pointers are not considered to be hazardous. However, as the availability of such devices has increased, so have reports of their misuse. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in December 1997 on the possibility of eye injury to children from handheld laser pointers. In October 1998, the American Academy of Ophthalmology upgraded an earlier caution to a warning, stating that laser pointers can be hazardous and should be kept away from children, after two reports of eye injuries involving young girls (age 11 and 13 yr). Of particular concern was the promotion of laser products as children's toys, such as those that can project cartoon figures and line drawings. Additionally, there have been reports involving the misuse of laser pointers (e.g., arrests made after police interpreted the red beam to be a laser-sighted weapon, spectators aiming laser lights at athletes during sporting events, cars illuminated on highways, and numerous incidents involving the illumination of aircraft). This technical note discusses physiological effects of exposure from a laser pointer, the regulation and classification of commercial laser products, and how the misuse of these pointers is a possible threat to aviation safety.

Model predictions of ocular injury from 1315-nm laser light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Polhamus, Garrett D.; Zuclich, Joseph A.; Cain, Clarence P.; Thomas, Robert J.; Foltz, Michael

2003-06-01

With the advent of future weapons systems that employ high energy lasers, the 1315 nm wavelength will present a new laser safety hazard to the armed forces. Experiments in non-human primates using this wavelength have demonstrated a range of ocular injuries, including corneal, lenticular and retinal lesions, as a function of pulse duration and spot size at the cornea. To improve our understanding of this phenomena, there is a need for a mathematical model that properly predicts these injuries and their dependence on appropriate exposure parameters. This paper describes the use of a finite difference model of laser thermal injury in the cornea and retina. The model was originally developed for use with shorter wavelength laser irradiation, and as such, requires estimation of several key parameters used in the computations. The predictions from the model are compared to the experimental data, and conclusions are drawn regarding the ability of the model to properly follow the published observations at this wavelength.

Overview on new diode lasers for defense applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neukum, Joerg

2012-11-01

Diode lasers have a broad wavelength range, from the visible to beyond 2.2μm. This allows for various applications in the defense sector, ranging from classic pumping of DPSSL in range finders or target designators, up to pumping directed energy weapons in the 50+ kW range. Also direct diode applications for illumination above 1.55μm, or direct IR countermeasures are of interest. Here an overview is given on some new wavelengths and applications which are recently under discussion. In this overview the following aspects are reviewed: • High Power CW pumps at 808 / 880 / 940nm • Pumps for DPAL - Diode Pumped Alkali Lasers • High Power Diode Lasers in the range < 1.0 μm • Scalable Mini-Bar concept for high brightness fiber coupled modules • The Light Weight Fiber Coupled module based on the Mini-Bar concept Overall, High Power Diode Lasers offer many ways to be used in new applications in the defense market.

Spatial filter with volume gratings for high-peak-power multistage laser amplifiers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Yi-zhou; Yang, Yi-sheng; Zheng, Guang-wei; Shen, Ben-jian; Pan, Heng-yue; Liu, Li

2010-08-01

The regular spatial filters comprised of lens and pinhole are essential component in high power laser systems, such as lasers for inertial confinement fusion, nonlinear optical technology and directed-energy weapon. On the other hand the pinhole is treated as a bottleneck of high power laser due to harmful plasma created by the focusing beam. In this paper we present a spatial filter based on angular selectivity of Bragg diffraction grating to avoid the harmful focusing effect in the traditional pinhole filter. A spatial filter consisted of volume phase gratings in two-pass amplifier cavity were reported. Two-dimensional filter was proposed by using single Pi-phase-shifted Bragg grating, numerical simulation results shown that its angular spectrum bandwidth can be less than 160urad. The angular selectivity of photo-thermorefractive glass and RUGATE film filters, construction stability, thermal stability and the effects of misalignments of gratings on the diffraction efficiencies under high-pulse-energy laser operating condition are discussed.

Target diagnostics for commissioning the AWE HELEN Laser Facility 100 TW chirped pulse amplification beam

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eagleton, R. T.; Clark, E. L.; Davies, H. M.

2006-10-15

The capability of the HELEN laser at the Atomic Weapons Establishment Aldermaston has been enhanced by the addition of a short-pulse laser beam to augment the twin opposing nanosecond time scale beams. The short-pulse beam utilizes the chirped pulse amplification (CPA) technique and is capable of delivering up to 60 J on target in a 500 fs pulse, around 100 TW, at the fundamental laser wavelength of 1.054 {mu}m. During the commissioning phase a number of diagnostic systems have been fielded, these include: x-ray pinhole imaging of the laser heated spot, charged particle time of flight, thermoluminescent dosimeter array, calibratedmore » radiochromic film, and CR39 nuclear track detector. These diagnostic systems have been used to verify the performance of the CPA beam to achieve a focused intensity of around 10{sup 19} W cm{sup -2} and to underwrite the facility radiological safety system.« less

The Mesoscale Science of the Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes (MaRIE) project

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kippen, Karen Elizabeth; Montoya, Donald Raymond

The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) requires the ability to understand and test how material structures, defects, and interfaces determine performance in extreme environments such as in nuclear weapons. To do this, MaRIE will be an x-ray source that is laser-like and brilliant with very fl exible and fast pulses to see at weapons-relevant time scales, and with high enough energy to study critical materials. The Department of Energy (DOE) has determined there is a mission need for MaRIE to deliver this capability. MaRIE can use some of the existing infrastructure of the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) andmore » its accelerator capability. MaRIE will be built as a strategic partnership of DOE national laboratories and university collaborators.« less

Hollow waveguides for the transmission of quantum cascade laser (QCL) energy for spectroscopic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harrington, James A.; Bledt, Carlos M.; Kriesel, Jason M.

2011-03-01

Spectroscopy in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) wavelength region (8 to 12 μm) is useful for detecting trace chemical compounds, such as those indicative of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). To enable the development of field portable systems for anti-proliferation efforts, current spectroscopy systems need to be made more robust, convenient, and practical (e.g., miniaturized). Hollow glass waveguides have been used with a Quantum Cascade Laser source for the delivery of single-mode laser radiation from 9 to 10 μm. The lowest loss measured for a straight, 484 μm-bore guide was 0.44 dB/m at 10 μm. The smallest 300 μm-bore waveguide transmitted singlemode radiation even while bent to radii less than 30 cm.

A high-precision velocity measuring system design for projectiles based on S-shaped laser screen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Huayi; Qian, Zheng; Yu, Hao; Li, Yutao

2018-03-01

The high-precision measurement of the velocity of high-speed flying projectile is of great significance for the evaluation and development of modern weapons. The velocity of the high-speed flying projectile is usually measured by laser screen velocity measuring system. But this method cannot achieve the repeated measurements, so we cannot make an indepth evaluation of the uncertainty about the measuring system. This paper presents a design based on S-shaped laser screen velocity measuring system. This design can achieve repeated measurements. Therefore, it can effectively reduce the uncertainty of the velocity measuring system. In addition, we made a detailed analysis of the uncertainty of the measuring system. The measurement uncertainty is 0.2% when the velocity of the projectile is about 200m/s.

Scope of Work for Integration Management and Installation Services of the National Ignition Facility Beampath Infrastructure System

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Coyle, P.D.

2000-04-25

The goal of the National Ignition Facility (NIF) project is to provide an aboveground experimental capability for maintaining nuclear competence and weapons effects simulation and to provide a facility capable of achieving fusion ignition using solid-state lasers as the energy driver. The facility will incorporate 192 laser beams, which will be focused onto a small target located at the center of a spherical target chamber--the energy from the laser beams will be deposited in a few billionths of a second. The target will then implode, forcing atomic nuclei to sufficiently high temperatures and densities necessary to achieve a miniature fusionmore » reaction. The NIF is under construction, at Livermore, California, located approximately 50 miles southeast of San Francisco, California.« less

Scope of Work for Integration Management and Installation Services of the National Ignition Facility Beampath Infrastructure System

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Coyle, P.D.

The goal of the National Ignition Facility (NIF) project is to provide an aboveground experimental capability for maintaining nuclear competence and weapons effects simulation and to provide a facility capable of achieving fusion ignition using solid-state lasers as the energy driver. The facility will incorporate 192 laser beams, which will be focused onto a small target located at the center of a spherical target chamber--the energy from the laser beams will be deposited in a few billionths of a second. The target will then implode, forcing atomic nuclei to sufficiently high temperatures and densities necessary to achieve a miniature fusionmore » reaction. The NIF is under construction, at Livermore, California, located approximately 50 miles southeast of San Francisco, California.« less

Aircrew laser eye protection: visual consequences and mission performance.

PubMed

Thomas, S R

1994-05-01

Battlefield laser proliferation poses a mounting risk to aircrew and ground personnel. Laser eye protection (LEP) based on current mature, mass-producible technologies absorbs visible light and can impact visual performance and color identification. These visual consequences account for many of the mission incompatibilities associated with LEP. Laboratory experiments and field investigations that examined the effects of LEP on visual performance and mission compatibility are reviewed. Laboratory experiments assessed the ability of subjects to correctly read and identify the color of head-down display symbology and tactical pilotage charts (TPC's) with three prototype LEP visors. Field investigations included Weapons Systems Trainer (WST), ground, and flight tests of the LEP visors. Recommendations for modifying aviation lighting systems to improve LEP compatibility are proposed. Issues concerning flight safety when using LEP during air operation are discussed.

Evaluation of uranium transitions for isotopically-selective laser induced fluorescence with diode lasers (technical report for ST064)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cannon, B. D.

1993-10-01

Isotopically-selective excitation of uranium atoms by diode lasers can be the basis for a portable instrument to perform uranium isotopic assays in the field. Such an instrument would improve the ability of on-site inspections to detect and deter nuclear proliferation. Published and unpublished spectroscopic data on atomic uranium were examined to identify candidate transitions for isotopically-selective laser excitation with diode lasers. Eleven candidate transitions were identified and evaluated for their potential usefulness for a portable uranium assay instrument. Eight of these transitions are suitable for laser induced fluorescence using different excitation and detection wavelengths, which will improve sensitivity and elemental selectivity. Data sheets on the 25 uranium transitions in the wavelength range 629 nm to 1,000 nm that originate in the ground or first excited states of neutral atomic uranium are included. Each data sheet provides the wavelength, upper and lower energy levels, angular momentum quantum numbers, U-235 isotope shift (relative to U-238, and high-resolution spectra of weapons-grade uranium (93% U-235 and 7% U-238).

Experimental determination of thermal turbulence effects on a propagating laser beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ndlovu, Sphumelele C.; Chetty, Naven

2015-08-01

The effect of turbulence on propagating laser beams has been a subject of interest since the evolution of lasers back in 1959. In this work, an inexpensive and reliable technique for producing interferograms using a point diffraction interferometer (PDI) was considered to experimentally study the turbulence effects on a laser beam propagating through air. The formed interferograms from a propagating beamwere observed and digitally processed to study the strength of atmospheric turbulence. This technique was found to be sensitive enough to detect changes in applied temperature with distance between the simulated turbulence and laser path. These preliminary findings indicated that we can use a PDI method to detect and localise atmospheric turbulence parameters. Such parameters are very important for use in the military (defence laser weapons) and this is vital for South Africa (SA) since it has natural resources, is involved in peace keeping and mediation for other countries, and hence must have a strong defence system that will be able to locate, detect and destroy incoming missiles and other threatening atmospheric systems in order to protect its environment and avoid the initiation of countermeasures on its land.

Laser-Induced Thermal-Mechanical Damage Characteristics of Cleartran Multispectral Zinc Sulfide with Temperature-Dependent Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Yajing; Jiang, Yanxue; Yang, Yanqiang

2015-01-01

Laser-induced thermal-mechanical damage characteristics of window materials are the focus problems in laser weapon and anti-radiation reinforcement technology. Thermal-mechanical effects and damage characteristics are investigated for cleartran multispectral zinc sulfide (ZnS) thin film window materials irradiated by continuous laser using three-dimensional (3D) thermal-mechanical model. Some temperature-dependent parameters are introduced into the model. The temporal-spatial distributions of temperature and thermal stress are exhibited. The damage mechanism is analyzed. The influences of temperature effect of material parameters and laser intensity on the development of thermal stress and the damage characteristics are examined. The results show, the von Mises equivalent stress along the thickness direction is fluctuant, which originates from the transformation of principal stresses from compressive stress to tensile stress with the increase of depth from irradiated surface. The damage originates from the thermal stress but not the melting. The thermal stress is increased and the damage is accelerated by introducing the temperature effect of parameters or the increasing laser intensity.

Procedure for Near-Simultaneous Testing

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

figure 8). A commercial handgun laser sight was fitted to a body that threaded on the breech end of each Mann barrel . After an initial test shot, the...Donald J. Little Weapons and Materials Research Directorate, ARL Approved for public...ANSI Std. Z39.18 Contents List of Figures iv 1. Introduction 1 2. Barrel Mounting 3 3. Target Fixturing 3 4. Electric Initiation 3 5. Gun

High-power lasers for directed-energy applications.

PubMed

Sprangle, Phillip; Hafizi, Bahman; Ting, Antonio; Fischer, Richard

2015-11-01

In this article, we review and discuss the research programs at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) on high-power lasers for directed-energy (DE) applications in the atmosphere. Physical processes affecting propagation include absorption/scattering, turbulence, and thermal blooming. The power levels needed for DE applications require combining a number of lasers. In atmospheric turbulence, there is a maximum intensity that can be placed on a target that is independent of the initial beam spot size and laser beam quality. By combining a number of kW-class fiber lasers, scientists at the NRL have successfully demonstrated high-power laser propagation in a turbulent atmosphere and wireless recharging. In the NRL experiments, four incoherently combined fiber lasers having a total power of 5 kW were propagated to a target 3.2 km away. These successful high-power experiments in a realistic atmosphere formed the basis of the Navy's Laser Weapon System. We compare the propagation characteristics of coherently and incoherently combined beams without adaptive optics. There is little difference in the energy on target between coherently and incoherently combined laser beams for multi-km propagation ranges and moderate to high levels of turbulence. Unlike incoherent combining, coherent combining places severe constraints on the individual lasers. These include the requirement of narrow power spectral linewidths in order to have long coherence times as well as polarization alignment of all the lasers. These requirements are extremely difficult for high-power lasers.

Lidar Measurements of the Stratosphere and Mesosphere at the Biejing Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Lifang; Yang, Guotao; Cheng, Xuewu; Wang, Jihong

With the high precision and high spatial and temporal resolution, the lidar has become a powerful weapon of near space environment monitoring. This paper describes the development of the solid-state 532nm and 589nm laser radar, which were used to detect the wind field of Beijing stratosphere and mesopause field. The injection seeding technique and atomic absorption saturation bubble frequency stabilization method was used to obtain narrow linewidth of 532nm lidar, Wherein the laser pulse energy of 800mJ, repetition rate of 30Hz. The 589nm yellow laser achieved by extra-cavity sum-frequency mixing 1064nm and 1319nm pulse laser with KTP crystal. The base frequency of 1064nm and 1319nm laser adopted injection seeding technique and YAG laser amplification for high energy pulse laser. Ultimately, the laser pulse of 150mJ and the linewidth of 130MHz of 589nm laser was obtain. And after AOM crystal frequency shift, Doppler frequency discriminator free methods achieved of the measuring of high-altitude wind. Both of 532nm and 589nm lidar system for engineering design of solid-state lidar provides a basis, and also provide a solid foundation for the development of all-solid-state wind lidar.

Optics detection and laser countermeasures on a combat vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sjöqvist, Lars; Allard, Lars; Pettersson, Magnus; Börjesson, Per; Lindskog, Nils; Bodin, Johan; Widén, Anders; Persson, Hâkan; Fredriksson, Jan; Edström, Sten

2016-10-01

Magnifying optical assemblies used for weapon guidance or rifle scopes may possess a threat for a combat vehicle and its personnel. Detection and localisation of optical threats is consequently of interest in military applications. Typically a laser system is used in optics detection, or optical augmentation, to interrogate a scene of interest to localise retroreflected laser radiation. One interesting approach for implementing optics detection on a combat vehicle is to use a continuous scanning scheme. In addition, optics detection can be combined with laser countermeasures, or a laser dazzling function, to efficiently counter an optical threat. An optics detection laser sensor demonstrator has been implemented on a combat vehicle. The sensor consists of a stabilised gimbal and was integrated together with a LEMUR remote electro-optical sight. A narrow laser slit is continuously scanned around the horizon to detect and locate optical threats. Detected threats are presented for the operator within the LEMUR presentation system, and by cueing a countermeasure laser installed in the LEMUR sensor housing threats can be defeated. Results obtained during a field demonstration of the optics detection sensor and the countermeasure laser will be presented. In addition, results obtained using a dual-channel optics detection system designed for false alarm reduction are also discussed.

Path toward a high-energy solid-state laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wood, Gary L.; Merkle, Larry D.; Dubinskii, Mark; Zandi, Bahram

2004-04-01

Lasers have come a long way since the first demonstration by Maiman of a ruby crystal laser in 1960. Lasers are used as scientific tools as well as for a wide variety of applications for both commercial industry and the military. Today lasers come in all types, shapes and sizes depending on their application. The solid-state laser has some distinct advantages in that it can be rugged, compact, and self contained, making it reliable over long periods of time. With the advent of diode laser pumping a ten times increase in overall laser efficiency has been realized. This significant event, and others, is changing the way solid-state lasers are applied and allows new possibilities. One of those new areas of exploration is the high energy laser. Solid-state lasers for welding are already developed and yield energies in the 0.5 to 6 kilojoule range. These lasers are at the forefront of what is possible in terms of high energy solid-state lasers. It is possible to achieve energies of greater than 100 kJ. These sorts of energies would allow applications, in addition to welding, such as directed energy weapons, extremely remote sensing, power transfer, propulsion, biological and chemical agent neutralization and unexploded and mine neutralization. This article will review these new advances in solid-state lasers and the different paths toward achieving a high energy laser. The advantages and challenges of each approach will be highlighted.

Chemical oxygen-iodine laser (COIL) for the dismantlement of nuclear facilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hallada, Marc R.; Seiffert, Stephan L.; Walter, Robert F.; Vetrovec, John

2000-05-01

The dismantlement of obsolete nuclear facilities is a major challenge for both the US Department of Energy and nuclear power utilities. Recent demonstrations have shown that lasers can be highly effective for size reduction cutting, especially for the efficient storage and recycling of materials. However, the full benefits of lasers can only be realized with high average power beams that can be conveniently delivered, via fiber optics, to remote and/or confined areas. Industrial lasers that can meet these requirements are not available now or for the foreseeable future. However, a military weapon laser, a Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL), which has been demonstrated at over a hundred kilo Watts, could be adapted to meet these needs and enable entirely new industrial applications. An 'industrialized' COIL would enable rapid sectioning of thick and complex structures, such as glove boxes, reactor vessels, and steam generators, accelerating dismantlement schedules and reducing worker hazards. The full advantages of lasers in dismantlement could finally be realized with a portable COIL which is integrated with sophisticated robotics. It could be built and deployed in less than two years, breaking the paradigm of labor-intensive dismantlement operations and cutting processing times and costs dramatically.

Thermal weapon sights with integrated fire control computers: algorithms and experiences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rothe, Hendrik; Graswald, Markus; Breiter, Rainer

2008-04-01

The HuntIR long range thermal weapon sight of AIM is deployed in various out of area missions since 2004 as a part of the German Future Infantryman system (IdZ). In 2007 AIM fielded RangIR as upgrade with integrated laser Range finder (LRF), digital magnetic compass (DMC) and fire control unit (FCU). RangIR fills the capability gaps of day/night fire control for grenade machine guns (GMG) and the enhanced system of the IdZ. Due to proven expertise and proprietary methods in fire control, fast access to military trials for optimisation loops and similar hardware platforms, AIM and the University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg (HSU) decided to team for the development of suitable fire control algorithms. The pronounced ballistic trajectory of the 40mm GMG requires most accurate FCU-solutions specifically for air burst ammunition (ABM) and is most sensitive to faint effects like levelling or firing up/downhill. This weapon was therefore selected to validate the quality of the FCU hard- and software under relevant military conditions. For exterior ballistics the modified point mass model according to STANAG 4355 is used. The differential equations of motions are solved numerically, the two point boundary value problem is solved iteratively. Computing time varies according to the precision needed and is typical in the range from 0.1 - 0.5 seconds. RangIR provided outstanding hit accuracy including ABM fuze timing in various trials of the German Army and allied partners in 2007 and is now ready for series production. This paper deals mainly with the fundamentals of the fire control algorithms and shows how to implement them in combination with any DSP-equipped thermal weapon sights (TWS) in a variety of light supporting weapon systems.

It may be Possible to Use a Neutron Beam as Propulsion for Spacecraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kriske, Richard M.

2016-01-01

It may be possible to keep Xenon 135 in a Superpositioned state with Xe-136 and Cs 135, the two decay products of Xenon 135. This may be done using a Gamma Ray or an X-ray Laser. At first glance it has the look and feel of yet another Noble Gas Laser. The difference is that it uses Neutron states within the Nucleus. The Neutrons would be emitted with a modulated Gamma or X-ray photon. In essence it may be possible to have a totally new type of Laser---This author calls them "Matter Lasers", where a lower energy photon with fewer Quantum Numbers would be used with a Noble Gas to produce a particle beam with higher energy and more Quantum Numbers. It may be possible to replace cumbersome particle accelerators with this type of Laser, to make mass from energy, via a Neutron Gas. This would be a great technological advance in Rocket Propulsion as well; low mass photon to high mass particle, such as a Higgs particle or a Top Quark. The Xenon 135, could come from a Fission Reactor within the Space Craft, as it is a reactor poison. The workings of an X-ray laser is already known and table top versions of it have been developed. Gamma Ray lasers are already in use and have been tested. A Laser would have a columnated beam with a very precise direction, unlike just a Neutron source which would go in all directions. Of course this beam could be used as a spectroscopic tool as well, in order to determine the composition of the matter that the spacecraft encounters. The spectroscopic tool could look for "Dark Matter" and other exotic types of matter that may occur in outerspace. The spacecraft could potentially reach "near speed of light velocities" in a fairly short time, since the Laser would be firing off massive particles, with great momentum. Lastly the precise Neutron beam could be used as a very powerful weapon or as a way of clearing space debri, since it could "force Nuclear Reactions" onto the object being fired upon, making it the ultimate space weapon, and Propulsion device in one package, using existing technologies, devices and theories. With this theory, it is now just an Engineering Problem, to make it work, and a great deal of funding. The benifits would be so enormous that this should be given priority.

Tissue photoablation process with short-pulsed lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mueller, Gerhard J.; Doerschel, Klaus; Kar, Hasan

1992-03-01

Since Hippocrates, physicians have three weapons to fight malignant diseases of the human body: Quae medicamenta non sanat, ferrum sanat; quae ferrum non sanat, ignis sanat; and quae vero ignis non sanat, insanabilia reputari oportet. Today there are various possibilities to use the ''fire'': electrical and optical cauterization; mono- and bipolar rf-surgery; ionizing radiation for tumor treatment; and last but not least, the laser of laser tissue interactions, all can be used to remove malignant tissue either by biological digestion or immediate ablation, i.e., photovaporization or photodecomposition. This paper will discuss a semiempirical theory of the so-called photoablation process and the thermal side effects of the surrounding tissue. The term ''Photoablation; has to be well differentiated with the terms photovaporization, photodisruption and photofragmentation. As will be shown in this paper, photoablation is a microscale fast thermal explosion.

Navy Lasers, Railgun, and Hypervelocity Projectile: Background and Issues for Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-18

1 Railgun is also spelled as rail gun ; EMRG is also abbreviated as EM railgun; hypervelocity is also...controlled Gatling gun . Employing all these measures reflects a long-standing Navy approach of creating a multi-layered defense against enemy...fact that Navy surface ships can use surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and their Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) Gatling guns to shoot down only a certain

Turbulence Measurement in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer Using Cellular Telephone Signals

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-01

TURBULENCE MEASUREMENT IN THE ATMOSPHERIC BOUNDARY LAYER USING CELLULAR TELEPHONE SIGNALS THESIS Lee R. Burchett, Civilian AFIT/APPLPHY/ENP/12 - M01...85 xiv TURBULENCE MEASUREMENT IN THE ATMOSPHERIC BOUNDARY LAYER USING CELLULAR TELEPHONE SIGNALS I. Introduction What follows is an...efficient use of these systems. For example, the effective range of a laser weapon is limited by the strength of turbulence on the path to the target

Model-based engineering for laser weapons systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panthaki, Malcolm; Coy, Steve

2011-10-01

The Comet Performance Engineering Workspace is an environment that enables integrated, multidisciplinary modeling and design/simulation process automation. One of the many multi-disciplinary applications of the Comet Workspace is for the integrated Structural, Thermal, Optical Performance (STOP) analysis of complex, multi-disciplinary space systems containing Electro-Optical (EO) sensors such as those which are designed and developed by and for NASA and the Department of Defense. The CometTM software is currently able to integrate performance simulation data and processes from a wide range of 3-D CAD and analysis software programs including CODE VTM from Optical Research Associates and SigFitTM from Sigmadyne Inc. which are used to simulate the optics performance of EO sensor systems in space-borne applications. Over the past year, Comet Solutions has been working with MZA Associates of Albuquerque, NM, under a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratories. This funded effort is a "risk reduction effort", to help determine whether the combination of Comet and WaveTrainTM, a wave optics systems engineering analysis environment developed and maintained by MZA Associates and used by the Air Force Research Laboratory, will result in an effective Model-Based Engineering (MBE) environment for the analysis and design of laser weapons systems. This paper will review the results of this effort and future steps.

National Ignition Facility: Experimental plan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1994-05-01

As part of the Conceptual Design Report (CDR) for the National Ignition Facility (NIF), scientists from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Sandia National Laboratory (SNL), the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics (UR/LLE), and EG&G formed an NIF Target Diagnostics Working Group. The purpose of the Target Diagnostics Working Group is to prepare conceptual designs of target diagnostics for inclusion in the facility CDR and to determine how these specifications impact the CDR. To accomplish this, a subgroup has directed its efforts at constructing an approximate experimental plan for the ignition campaign of the NIF CDR. The results of this effort are contained in this document, the Experimental Plan for achieving fusion ignition in the NIF. This group initially concentrated on the flow-down requirements of the experimental campaign leading to ignition, which will dominate the initial efforts of the NIF. It is envisaged, however, that before ignition, there will be parallel campaigns supporting weapons physics, weapons effects, and other research. This plan was developed by analyzing the sequence of activities required to finally fire the laser at the level of power and precision necessary to achieve the conditions of an ignition hohlraum target, and to then use our experience in activating and running Nova experiments to estimate the rate of completing these activities.

A large capacity time division multiplexed (TDM) laser beam combining technique enabled by nanosecond speed KTN deflector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Stuart (Shizhuo); Chao, Ju-Hung; Zhu, Wenbin; Chen, Chang-Jiang; Campbell, Adrian; Henry, Michael; Dubinskiy, Mark; Hoffman, Robert C.

2017-08-01

In this paper, we present a novel large capacity (a 1000+ channel) time division multiplexing (TDM) laser beam combining technique by harnessing a state-of-the-art nanosecond speed potassium tantalate niobate (KTN) electro-optic (EO) beam deflector as the time division multiplexer. The major advantages of TDM approach are: (1) large multiplexing capability (over 1000 channels), (2) high spatial beam quality (the combined beam has the same spatial profile as the individual beam), (3) high spectral beam quality (the combined beam has the same spectral width as the individual beam, and (4) insensitive to the phase fluctuation of individual laser because of the nature of the incoherent beam combining. The quantitative analyses show that it is possible to achieve over one hundred kW average power, single aperture, single transverse mode solid state and/or fiber laser by pursuing this innovative beam combining method, which represents a major technical advance in the field of high energy lasers. Such kind of 100+ kW average power diffraction limited beam quality lasers can play an important role in a variety of applications such as laser directed energy weapons (DEW) and large-capacity high-speed laser manufacturing, including cutting, welding, and printing.

Fitting relationship between the beam quality β factor of high-energy laser and the wavefront aberration of laser beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Zhong-Ye; Zhang, Xiao-Fang

2018-01-01

The mathematical relation between the beam quality β factor of high-energy laser and the wavefront aberration of laser beam is important in beam quality control theory of the high-energy laser weapon system. In order to obtain this mathematical relation, numerical simulation is used in the research. Firstly, the Zernike representations of typically distorted atmospheric wavefront aberrations caused by the Kolmogoroff turbulence are generated. And then, the corresponding beam quality β factors of the different distorted wavefronts are calculated numerically through fast Fourier transform. Thus, the statistical distribution rule between the beam quality β factors of high-energy laser and the wavefront aberrations of the beam can be established by the calculated results. Finally, curve fitting method is chosen to establish the mathematical fitting relationship of these two parameters. And the result of the curve fitting shows that there is a quadratic curve relation between the beam quality β factor of high-energy laser and the wavefront aberration of laser beam. And in this paper, 3 fitting curves, in which the wavefront aberrations are consisted of Zernike Polynomials of 20, 36, 60 orders individually, are established to express the relationship between the beam quality β factor and atmospheric wavefront aberrations with different spatial frequency.

Advancements in high-power diode laser stacks for defense applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandey, Rajiv; Merchen, David; Stapleton, Dean; Patterson, Steve; Kissel, Heiko; Fassbender, Wilhlem; Biesenbach, Jens

2012-06-01

This paper reports on the latest advancements in vertical high-power diode laser stacks using micro-channel coolers, which deliver the most compact footprint, power scalability and highest power/bar of any diode laser package. We present electro-optical (E-O) data on water-cooled stacks with wavelengths ranging from 7xx nm to 9xx nm and power levels of up to 5.8kW, delivered @ 200W/bar, CW mode, and a power-conversion efficiency of >60%, with both-axis collimation on a bar-to-bar pitch of 1.78mm. Also, presented is E-O data on a compact, conductively cooled, hardsoldered, stack package based on conventional CuW and AlN materials, with bar-to-bar pitch of 1.8mm, delivering average power/bar >15W operating up to 25% duty cycle, 10ms pulses @ 45C. The water-cooled stacks can be used as pump-sources for diode-pumped alkali lasers (DPALs) or for more traditional diode-pumped solid-state lasers (DPSSL). which are power/brightness scaled for directed energy weapons applications and the conductively-cooled stacks as illuminators.

Characterisation and Modification of Thermally Stable High Explosives for Laser Flyer Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parker, A.; Claridge, R. P.; Proud, W. G.; Johnson, N. A.

2007-12-01

Laser initiation offers improved weapon survivability, versatility and greater Insensitive Munitions (IM) compliance. Detonators based on laser-driven flyers are less vulnerable to electrical initiation and can be based on insensitive secondary explosives. Additionally, this technology will offer advantages in terms of improved flexibility and reliability. Hexanitrostilbene (HNS) and nonanitro-m-terphenyl (NONA) were selected for investigation at QinetiQ as their increased thermal stability over conventional explosives makes them ideal candidates for use in insensitive munition compliant applications. The response of these materials to short duration high-amplitude shock impulses provided by exploding foil initiators (EFI), the electrical equivalent of a laser-driven flyer system, was investigated. Preparation techniques including sonication and the incorporation of additives were used to sensitize the materials to flyer impact, yet maintain their insensitivity to external hazards. Sonication significantly reduced the particle size of both HNS and NONA. The reduced-size explosives exhibited increased sensitivity to EFI impact than the starting materials.

Laser Assisted Micro Wire GMAW and Droplet Welding

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

FUERSCHBACH, PHILLIP W.; LUCK, D. L.; BERTRAM, LEE A.

2002-03-01

Laser beam welding is the principal welding process for the joining of Sandia weapon components because it can provide a small fusion zone with low overall heating. Improved process robustness is desired since laser energy absorption is extremely sensitive to joint variation and filler metal is seldom added. This project investigated the experimental and theoretical advantages of combining a fiber optic delivered Nd:YAG laser with a miniaturized GMAW system. Consistent gas metal arc droplet transfer employing a 0.25 mm diameter wire was only obtained at high currents in the spray transfer mode. Excessive heating of the workpiece in this modemore » was considered an impractical result for most Sandia micro-welding applications. Several additional droplet detachment approaches were investigated and analyzed including pulsed tungsten arc transfer(droplet welding), servo accelerated transfer, servo dip transfer, and electromechanically braked transfer. Experimental observations and rigorous analysis of these approaches indicate that decoupling droplet detachment from the arc melting process is warranted and may someday be practical.« less

The Si(1-x)Nx Rugate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bassel, R. H.

1989-08-01

With the advent of lasers, intense sources of monochromatic light are now available. The problem of eye and sensor protection from these devices is now crucial to the field operations of troops and military weapons systems. In other words it is necessary to construct a filter which will reject particular laser lines from impinging upon a material. The results are presented in the infrared and near infrared region of the spectrum. The effectiveness of a Rugate filter constructed of a silicon nitrogen alloy is calculated. Single and double line rugates are discussed. The dependence on the rugate on the various parameters such as the number of cycles, the amplitudes of the sine waves and the phase angle are presented. The effects of absorption, constructional malfunctions, and the angle of incidence of the laser beam are studied. It is found that quite large optical densities can be achieved with rather thin films, thus the silicon nitrogen rugate is a viable candidate for a laser rejection filter.

Diagnostics development for E-beam excited air channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eckstrom, D. J.; Dickenson, J. S.

1982-02-01

As the tempo of development of particle beam weapons increases, more detailed diagnostics of the interaction of the particle beam with the atmosphere are being proposed and implemented. Some of these diagnostics involve probing of the excited air channel with visible wavelength laser radiation. Examples include the use of visible wavelength interferometry to measure electron density profiles in the nose of the beam Ri81 and Stark shift measurements to determine self-induced electric fields Hi81, DR81. In these diagnostics, the change in laser intensity due to the desired diagnostic effect can be quite small, leading to the possibility that other effects, such as gas phase absorption, could seriously interfere with the measurement.

LIFE Materials: Overview of Fuels and Structural Materials Issues Volume 1

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Farmer, J

2008-09-08

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) project, a laser-based Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) experiment designed to achieve thermonuclear fusion ignition and burn in the laboratory, is under construction at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and will be completed in April of 2009. Experiments designed to accomplish the NIF's goal will commence in late FY2010 utilizing laser energies of 1 to 1.3 MJ. Fusion yields of the order of 10 to 20 MJ are expected soon thereafter. Laser initiated fusion-fission (LIFE) engines have now been designed to produce nuclear power from natural or depleted uranium without isotopic enrichment, and from spentmore » nuclear fuel from light water reactors without chemical separation into weapons-attractive actinide streams. A point-source of high-energy neutrons produced by laser-generated, thermonuclear fusion within a target is used to achieve ultra-deep burn-up of the fertile or fissile fuel in a sub-critical fission blanket. Fertile fuels including depleted uranium (DU), natural uranium (NatU), spent nuclear fuel (SNF), and thorium (Th) can be used. Fissile fuels such as low-enrichment uranium (LEU), excess weapons plutonium (WG-Pu), and excess highly-enriched uranium (HEU) may be used as well. Based upon preliminary analyses, it is believed that LIFE could help meet worldwide electricity needs in a safe and sustainable manner, while drastically shrinking the nation's and world's stockpile of spent nuclear fuel and excess weapons materials. LIFE takes advantage of the significant advances in laser-based inertial confinement fusion that are taking place at the NIF at LLNL where it is expected that thermonuclear ignition will be achieved in the 2010-2011 timeframe. Starting from as little as 300 to 500 MW of fusion power, a single LIFE engine will be able to generate 2000 to 3000 MWt in steady state for periods of years to decades, depending on the nuclear fuel and engine configuration. Because the fission blanket in a fusion-fission hybrid system is subcritical, a LIFE engine can burn any fertile or fissile nuclear material, including un-enriched natural or depleted U and SNF, and can extract a very high percentage of the energy content of its fuel resulting in greatly enhanced energy generation per metric ton of nuclear fuel, as well as nuclear waste forms with vastly reduced concentrations of long-lived actinides. LIFE engines could thus provide the ability to generate vast amounts of electricity while greatly reducing the actinide content of any existing or future nuclear waste and extending the availability of low cost nuclear fuels for several thousand years. LIFE also provides an attractive pathway for burning excess weapons Pu to over 99% FIMA (fission of initial metal atoms) without the need for fabricating or reprocessing mixed oxide fuels (MOX). Because of all of these advantages, LIFE engines offer a pathway toward sustainable and safe nuclear power that significantly mitigates nuclear proliferation concerns and minimizes nuclear waste. An important aspect of a LIFE engine is the fact that there is no need to extract the fission fuel from the fission blanket before it is burned to the desired final level. Except for fuel inspection and maintenance process times, the nuclear fuel is always within the core of the reactor and no weapons-attractive materials are available outside at any point in time. However, an important consideration when discussing proliferation concerns associated with any nuclear fuel cycle is the ease with which reactor fuel can be converted to weapons usable materials, not just when it is extracted as waste, but at any point in the fuel cycle. Although the nuclear fuel remains in the core of the engine until ultra deep actinide burn up is achieved, soon after start up of the engine, once the system breeds up to full power, several tons of fissile material is present in the fission blanket. However, this fissile material is widely dispersed in millions of fuel pebbles, which can be tagged as individual accountable items, and thus made difficult to divert in large quantities. Several topical reports are being prepared on the materials and processes required for the LIFE engine. Specific materials of interest include: (1) Baseline TRISO Fuel (TRISO); (2) Inert Matrix Fuel (IMF) & Other Alternative Solid Fuels; (3) Beryllium (Be) & Molten Lead Blankets (Pb/PbLi); (4) Molten Salt Coolants (FLIBE/FLiNaBe/FLiNaK); (5) Molten Salt Fuels (UF4 + FLIBE/FLiNaBe); (6) Cladding Materials for Fuel & Beryllium; (7) ODS FM Steel (ODS); (8) Solid First Wall (SFW); and (9) Solid-State Tritium Storage (Hydrides).« less

[The error analysis and experimental verification of laser radar spectrum detection and terahertz time domain spectroscopy].

PubMed

Liu, Wen-Tao; Li, Jing-Wen; Sun, Zhi-Hui

2010-03-01

Terahertz waves (THz, T-ray) lie between far-infrared and microwave in electromagnetic spectrum with frequency from 0.1 to 10 THz. Many chemical agent explosives show characteristic spectral features in the terahertz. Compared with conventional methods of detecting a variety of threats, such as weapons and chemical agent, THz radiation is low frequency and non-ionizing, and does not give rise to safety concerns. The present paper summarizes the latest progress in the application of terahertz time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) to chemical agent explosives. A kind of device on laser radar detecting and real time spectrum measuring was designed which measures the laser spectrum on the bases of Fourier optics and optical signal processing. Wedge interferometer was used as the beam splitter to wipe off the background light and detect the laser and measure the spectrum. The result indicates that 10 ns laser radar pulse can be detected and many factors affecting experiments are also introduced. The combination of laser radar spectrum detecting, THz-TDS, modern pattern recognition and signal processing technology is the developing trend of remote detection for chemical agent explosives.

Comprehensive description of the Orion laser facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hopps, Nicholas; Oades, Kevin; Andrew, Jim; Brown, Colin; Cooper, Graham; Danson, Colin; Daykin, Simon; Duffield, Stuart; Edwards, Ray; Egan, David; Elsmere, Stephen; Gales, Steve; Girling, Mark; Gumbrell, Edward; Harvey, Ewan; Hillier, David; Hoarty, David; Horsfield, Colin; James, Steven; Leatherland, Alex; Masoero, Stephen; Meadowcroft, Anthony; Norman, Michael; Parker, Stefan; Rothman, Stephen; Rubery, Michael; Treadwell, Paul; Winter, David; Bett, Thomas

2015-06-01

The Orion laser facility at the atomic weapons establishment (AWE) in the UK has been operational since April 2013, fielding experiments that require both its long and short pulse capability. This paper provides a full description of the facility in terms of laser performance, target systems and diagnostics currently available. Inevitably, this is a snapshot of current capability—the available diagnostics and the laser capability are evolving continuously. The laser systems consist of ten beams, optimised around 1 ns pulse duration, which each provide a nominal 500 J at a wavelength of 351 nm. There are also two short pulse beams, which each provide 500 J in 0.5 ps at 1054 nm. There are options for frequency doubling one short pulse beam to enhance the pulse temporal contrast. More recently, further contrast enhancement, based on optical parametric amplification (OPA) in the front end with a pump pulse duration of a few ps, has been installed. An extensive suite of diagnostics are available for users, probing the optical emission, x-rays and particles produced in laser-target interactions. Optical probe diagnostics are also available. A description of the diagnostics is provided.

A new method for incoherent combining of far-field laser beams based on multiple faculae recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Demao; Li, Sichao; Yan, Zhihui; Zhang, Zenan; Liu, Yuan

2018-03-01

Compared to coherent beam combining, incoherent beam combining can complete the output of high power laser beam with high efficiency, simple structure, low cost and high thermal damage resistance, and it is easy to realize in engineering. Higher target power is achieved by incoherent beam combination which using technology of multi-channel optical path correction. However, each channel forms a spot in the far field respectively, which cannot form higher laser power density with low overlap ratio of faculae. In order to improve the combat effectiveness of the system, it is necessary to overlap different faculae that improve the target energy density. Hence, a novel method for incoherent combining of far-field laser beams is present. The method compromises piezoelectric ceramic technology and evaluation algorithm of faculae coincidence degree which based on high precision multi-channel optical path correction. The results show that the faculae recognition algorithm is low-latency(less than 10ms), which can meet the needs of practical engineering. Furthermore, the real time focusing ability of far field faculae is improved which was beneficial to the engineering of high-energy laser weapon or other laser jamming systems.

Application of optical limiting materials in laser seeker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Yan-xiong; Wu, Dong-sheng; Zhang, Peng; Duan, Xiao-feng

2005-01-01

Seeker is the key component in the laser guided weapons. Although the seeker has many anti-jamming measures such as the narrowband filter in the front of the seeker and the tracking gate processing circuit in signal processing part, and these anti-jamming measures are always effective for the low power jamming laser. As far as the high power laser which can pass though the filter is concerned, it is easy to make the detector saturate, which will lead the seeker into losing the capturing and tracking capability for the target. In the past ten years, the applied research of organic nonlinear materials which is according to the optical limiting effect has had great development in the laser technology field. And some of these materials have been put into practicability phase. This kind of materials is characterized by its wide absorption spectrum, obvious nonlinear effect and quick response speed, all of which excel the mineral. If this kind of materials can be applied into the laser seeker, it will remedy the laser seeker's defect that its protective capability is weak for the high power jamming laser. The whole applied scheme is present in this paper. And the anti-jamming capability of seeker is analysed constructively before and after the organic matter is applied in the laser seeker. The result indicates that this kind of method is viable in theory.

The national ignition facility high-energy ultraviolet laser system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moses, Edward I.

2004-09-01

The National Ignition Facility (NIF), currently under construction at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, is a stadium-sized facility containing a 192-beam, 1.8 MJ, 500 TW, ultraviolet laser system together with a 10-m diameter target chamber with room for nearly 100 experimental diagnostics. When completed, NIF will be the world's largest and most energetic laser experimental system, providing an international center to study inertial confinement fusion and the physics of matter at extreme energy densities and pressures. NIF's 192 energetic laser beams will compress fusion targets to conditions required for thermonuclear burn, liberating more energy than required to initiate the fusion reactions. Other NIF experiments will allow the study of physical processes at temperatures approaching 10 8 K and 10 11 Bar, conditions that exist naturally only in the interior of stars, planets and in nuclear weapons. NIF is now entering the first phases of its laser commissioning program. The first four beams of the NIF laser system have generated 106 kJ of infrared light and over 10 kJ at the third harmonic (351 nm). NIF's target experimental systems are also being installed in preparation for experiments to begin in late 2003. This paper provides a detailed look the NIF laser systems, the significant laser and optical systems breakthroughs that were developed, the results of recent laser commissioning shots, and plans for commissioning diagnostics for experiments on NIF.

Generation and characterization of biological aerosols for laser measurements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cheng, Yung-Sung; Barr, E.B.

1995-12-01

Concerns for proliferation of biological weapons including bacteria, fungi, and viruses have prompted research and development on methods for the rapid detection of biological aerosols in the field. Real-time instruments that can distinguish biological aerosols from background dust would be especially useful. Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) is developing a laser-based, real-time instrument for rapid detection of biological aerosols, and ITRI is working with SNL scientists and engineers to evaluate this technology for a wide range of biological aerosols. This paper describes methods being used to generate the characterize the biological aerosols for these tests. In summary, a biosafe system hasmore » been developed for generating and characterizing biological aerosols and using those aerosols to test the SNL laser-based real-time instrument. Such tests are essential in studying methods for rapid detection of airborne biological materials.« less

Meteorological effects on laser propagation for power transmission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beverly, R. E., III

1982-01-01

An examination of possible laser operating parameters for power transmission to earth from solar power satellites is presented, with particular attention paid to assuring optimal delivery at midlatitudes. The degradation of beam efficiency due to molecular scattering, molecular absorption, aerosol scattering, and aerosol absorption during beam propagation through the atmosphere can be alleviated by judicious choice of wavelength windows, elevating the receptor sites, using a vertical propagation path, or by hole boring, i.e., vaporizing the aerosol particles in the beam path. Analyses are given for the beam propagation through fog, haze, clouds, and snow using various transitions. Only weapons-quality lasers are seen as being capable of boring through clouds and aerosols, employing a CW beam with superimposed pulses at high power densities. It is concluded that further short wavelength transmission experiments be performed to demonstrate transmission feasibility with the CW/pulsed mode of beam propagation.

Mitigating the Backlash: US Airpower as a Military Instrument of Policy

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-06-01

maintain their preeminence by employing strategies based more on benevolence than coercion.”31 This is a key point , as it marks a line of departure...weapons are easily defeated with smoke or fire in the target area (to defeat laser designators and thermal imaging), by adequate concealment and...create decoy surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and radars, some quite sophisticated, and to employ previously “strategic” (immobile, point -defense

How adaptive optics may have won the Cold War

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tyson, Robert K.

2013-05-01

While there are many theories and studies concerning the end of the Cold War, circa 1990, I postulate that one of the contributors to the result was the development of adaptive optics. The emergence of directed energy weapons, specifically space-based and ground-based high energy lasers made practicable with adaptive optics, showed that a successful defense against inter-continental ballistic missiles was not only possible, but achievable in a reasonable period of time.

Measurement and Modeling of High Energy Laser (HEL)-Droplet Interactions

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-11

and a water droplet. Based upon these results, both offensive and defensive systems can be developed for distinct military applications. Analysis of...closer to being a realistic shipboard asset, so does the reality of other countries possessing equal capabilities. The Chinese military has recently...structural damage to many targets [2]. Although far from the stage of being able to penetrate the skin of a maritime military vessel, this weapon is the

Quality, Quantity, And Surprise! Trade-Offs In X-Raser ASAT Attrition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Callaham, Michael B.; Scibilia, Frank M.

1984-08-01

In order to characterize the effects of technological superiority, numerical superiority, and pre-emption on space battle outcomes, we have constructed a battle simulation in which "Red" and "Blue" ASATs, each armed with a specified number of x-ray lasers of specified range, move along specified orbits and fire on one another according to a pair of battle management algorithms. The simulated battle proceeds until apparent steady-state force levels are reached. Battle outcomes are characterized by terminal force ratio and by terminal force-exchange ratio as effective weapon range, multiplicity (x-rasers per ASAT), and pre-emptive role are varied parametrically. A major conclusion is that pre-emptive advantage increases with increasing x-raser range and multiplicity (x-rasers per ASAT) and with increasing force size. That is, the "use 'em or lose 'em" dilemma will become more stark as such weapons are refined and proliferated.

Laser induced damage in optical materials: ninth ASTM symposium.

PubMed

Glass, A J; Guenther, A H

1978-08-01

The Ninth Annual Symposium on Optical Materials for High Power Lasers (Boulder Damage Symposium) was held at the National Bureau of Standards in Boulder, Colorado, 4-6 October 1977. The symposium was under the auspices of ASTM Committee F-1, Subcommittee on Laser Standards, with the joint sponsorship of NBS, the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency, the Department of Energy (formerly ERDA), and the Office of Naval Research. About 185 scientists attended, including representatives of the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Australia, Union of South Africa, and the Soviet Union. The Symposium was divided into sessions concerning Laser Windows and Materials, Mirrors and Surfaces, Thin Films, Laser Glass and Glass Lasers, and Fundamental Mechanisms. As in previous years, the emphasis of the papers was directed toward new frontiers and new developments. Particular emphasis was given to materials for use from 10.6 microm to the uv region. Highlights included surface characterization, thin film-substrate boundaries, and advances in fundamental laser-matter threshold interactions and mechanisms. The scaling of damage thresholds with pulse duration, focal area, and wavelength were also discussed. Alexander J. Glass of Lawrence Livermore Laboratory and Arthur H. Guenther of the Air Force Weapons Laboratory were co-chairpersons. The Tenth Annual Symposium is scheduled for 12-14 September 1978 at the National Bureau of Standards, Boulder, Colorado.

Diode Pumped Alkaline Laser System: A High Powered, Low SWaP Directed Energy Option for Ballistic Missile Defense High-Level Summary - April 2017

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wisoff, P. J.

The Diode-Pumped Alkali Laser (DPAL) system is an R&D effort funded by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) underway at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). MDA has described the characteristics needed for a Boost Phase directed energy (DE) weapon to work against ICBM-class threat missiles. In terms of the platform, the mission will require a high altitude Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) that can fly in the “quiet” stratosphere and display long endurance – i.e., days on station. In terms of the laser, MDA needs a high power, low size and weight laser that could be carried by such a platform andmore » deliver lethal energy to an ICBM-class threat missile from hundreds of kilometers away. While both the military and industry are pursuing Directed Energy for tactical applications, MDA’s objectives pose a significantly greater challenge than other current efforts in terms of the power needed from the laser, the low size and weight required, and the range, speed, and size of the threat missiles. To that end, MDA is funding two R&D efforts to assess the feasibility of a high power (MWclass) and low SWaP (size, weight and power) laser: a fiber combining laser (FCL) project at MIT’s Lincoln Laboratory, and LLNL’s Diode-Pumped Alkali Laser (DPAL) system.« less

Laser ablation/ionization characterization of solids: Second interim progress report of the strategic environmental research development program

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hess, W.P.; Bushaw, B.A.; McCarthy, M.I.

1996-10-01

The Department of Energy is undertaking the enormous task of remediating defense wastes and environmental insults which have occurred over 50 years of nuclear weapons production. It is abundantly clear that significant technology advances are needed to characterize, process, and store highly radioactive waste and to remediate contaminated zones. In addition to the processing and waste form issues, analytical technologies needed for the characterization of solids, and for monitoring storage tanks and contaminated sites do not exist or are currently expensive labor-intensive tasks. This report describes progress in developing sensitive, rapid, and widely applicable laser-based mass spectrometry techniques for analysismore » of mixed chemical wastes and contaminated soils.« less

Theoretical modeling of the MILES hit profiles in military weapon low-data rate simulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrews, L. C.; Phillips, R. L.; Smith, C. A.; Belichki, S. B.; Crabbs, R.; Cofarro, J. T.; Fountain, W.; Tucker, F. M.; Parrish, B. J.

2016-09-01

Math modeling of a low-data-rate optical communication system is presented and compared with recent testing results over ranges up to 100 m in an indoor tunnel at Kennedy Space Center. Additional modeling of outdoor testing results at longer ranges in the open atmosphere is also presented. The system modeled is the Army's Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) that has been used as a tactical training system since the early 1980s. The objective of the current modeling and testing is to obtain target hit zone profiles for the M16A2/M4 rifles and establish a data baseline for MILES that will aid in its upgrade using more recently developed lasers and detectors.

Study of Increasing Lead Times in Major Weapon Systems Acquisition.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-07-31

Conduit Covers X X X Connectors, Electrical X X X X X Control Systems (Auto- mated, Boiler) X Davit, Boat, Power- Opera.ted X Diodes X X X X A iX...tubes. Other end uses include washers in computer equipment, electrical insulators in motors and generators, and retardation plates in lasers . Supply...relays, electron tubes, printed circuits, and resistors. Platinum is also used in dentistry and for jewelry. Supply, A small amount of platinum (less

Distance Support In-Service Engineering for the High Energy Laser

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-03-01

Wilson, Johnson, Tierney, and Saltzman 2014). A USN Arleigh Burke Class Guided Missile Destroyer has four gas turbine engines. With a typical deployment...lasting six 57 months, this means the data generated by the gas turbine engines alone would total to be 87,658 terabytes or 87 petabytes. If this...accounts for the gas turbine engines alone and does not include the rest of the systems on board of the ship (such as radar, communication, weapons

Effects of Directed Energy Weapons

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-01-01

them, and led to the law of conser- vation of energy. 2. The estimate of the energy it takes to brew a cup of coffee as- sumes that it is a 6 oz cup...the thermal diffusivity of the target material (see Figure 1–5). We can use this result to estimate the threshold for melting. A laser of intensity S...is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and

Applications of Quantum Cascade Laser Scanners for Remote Detection of Chemical and Biological Threats and Weapons of Mass Destruction

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-07-09

Rivera. Highly Sensitive Filter Paper Substrate for SERS Trace Explosives Detection , International Journal of Spectroscopy, (09 2012): 0. doi: 10.1155...Highly Sensitive Filter Paper Substrate for SERS Field Detection of Trace Threat Chemicals”, PITTCON-2013: Forensic Analysis in the Lab and Crime Scene...the surface. In addition, built-in algorithms were used for nearly real-time sample detection . Trace and bulk concentrations of the other substances

Science and society test VIII: The arms race revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hafemeister, David W.

1983-03-01

Approximate numerical estimates are developed in order to quantify a variety of aspects of the arms race. The results of these calculations are consistent with either direct observations or with more sophisticated calculations. This paper will cover some of the following aspects of the arms race: (1) the electromagnetic pulse (EMP); (2) spy satellites; (3) ICBM accuracy; (4) NAVSTAR global positioning satellites; (5) particle and laser beam weapons; (6) the neutron bomb; and (7) war games.

Analysis of High Energy Laser Weapon Employment from a Navy Ship

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

meters Capacity ~ 400 kg (T.B. Racing and Marine, 2011) Speed 80 knots (148 km/h = 42 m/s) Material Fiberglass / Aluminium Explosive Improvised...CIWS) and requires the ship’s electrical power of about 400 kW. This would be deemed adequate for employment on an LCS ship. A boat target with an...Inflammation of the cornea, similar to sunburn 315 - 400 nm (Ultraviolet UV-A) CORNEA and LENS Photochemical cataract; Clouding of the lens 400

Efficient Production of 4-KeV X Rays from Laser-Heated Xe Gas = Confined Within a Hohlraum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grun, Jacob; Suter, Larry J.; Back, Christina A.; Decker, Chris; Kauffman, Robert L.; Davis, John F.

1996-11-01

Clean (debris-free) and efficient multi-kilovolt x-ray sources are needed for irradiating large military test objects and for use as backlighters in future Inertial Confinement Fusion experiments. Laser-plasma x-ray sources are particularly attractive for these uses since their spectrum can be controlled by proper choice of plasma material and laser intensity; and because many laser-plasma sources can be designed to produce little or no particulate debris. We report on an experiment in which we measured the production-efficiency, spectrum, and time history of 1-4 KeV x-rays from beryllium hohlraums which were filled with 1 and 2 atm of Xe gas and then irradiated by a 2-nsec pulse from the NOVA laser. It is predicted that 17be converted into > 4KeV x rays and 30history of >4KeV part of the spectrum is predicted to exhibit a dip in intensity whose depth and location vary with fill pressure and hohlraum size.. We also measured the debris produced by these sources. Work supported by the Defense Special Weapons Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy at LLNL under W-7405-ENG-48.

Mass removal by oxidation and sublimation of porous graphite during fiber laser irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, Grady T.; Bauer, William A.; Fox, Charles D.; Gonzales, Ashley E.; Herr, Nicholas C.; Gosse, Ryan C.; Perram, Glen P.

2017-01-01

The various effects of laser heating of carbon materials are key to assessing laser weapon effectiveness. Porous graphite plates, cylinders, and cones with densities of 1.55 to 1.82 g/cm3 were irradiated by a 10-kW fiber laser at 0.075 to 3.525 kW/cm2 for 120 s to study mass removal and crater formation. Surface temperatures reached steady state values as high as 3767 K. The total decrease in sample mass ranged from 0.06 to 6.29 g, with crater volumes of 0.52 to 838 mm3, and penetration times for 12.7-mm-thick plates as short as 38 s. Minor contaminants in the graphite samples produced calcium and iron oxide to be redeposited on the graphite surface. Dramatic graphite crystalline structures are also produced at higher laser irradiances. Significantly increased porosity of the sample is observed even outside the laser-irradiated region. Total mass removed increases with deposited laser energy at a rate of 4.83 g/MJ for medium extruded graphite with an apparent threshold of 0.15 MJ. At ˜3.5 kW/cm2, the fractions of the mass removed from the cylindrical samples in the crater, surrounding trench, and outer region of decreased porosity are 38%, 47%, and 15%, respectively. Graphite is particularly resistant to damage by high power lasers. The new understanding of graphite combustion and sublimation during laser irradiation is vital to the more complex behavior of carbon composites.

Laser beam propagation through turbulence and adaptive optics for beam delivery improvement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicolas, Stephane

2015-10-01

We report results from numerical simulations of laser beam propagation through atmospheric turbulence. In particular, we study the statistical variations of the fractional beam energy hitting inside an optical aperture placed at several kilometer distance. The simulations are performed for different turbulence conditions and engagement ranges, with and without the use of turbulence mitigation. Turbulence mitigation is simulated with phase conjugation. The energy fluctuations are deduced from time sequence realizations. It is shown that turbulence mitigation leads to an increase of the mean energy inside the aperture and decrease of the fluctuations even in strong turbulence conditions and long distance engagement. As an example, the results are applied to a high energy laser countermeasure system, where we determine the probability that a single laser pulse, or one of the pulses in a sequence, will provide a lethal energy inside the target aperture. Again, turbulence mitigation contributes to increase the performance of the system at long-distance and for strong turbulence conditions in terms of kill probability. We also discuss a specific case where turbulence contributes to increase the pulse energy within the target aperture. The present analysis can be used to evaluate the performance of a variety of systems, such as directed countermeasures, laser communication, and laser weapons.

Bibliography of short wavelength chemical laser research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perram, Glen P.

1993-05-01

High power short wavelength chemical laser (SWCL) systems offer great advantages for strategic and tactical military applications, including both weapons and imaging missions. The promise of very high brightness, high mass efficiency, and wavelength agility has justified a modest basic research program for more than a decade. Significant progress towards the demonstration of a visible chemical laser has been made during the past few years. Highly efficient methods of chemically producing metastable electronic states at concentrations exceeding 3 x 10(exp 16) molecules/cu cm have been developed. Energy transfer from these metastables to suitable lasant species has been used to demonstrate gain in the visible. Chemically generated gain of 0.029 %/cm on the (A-X) electronic transition in bismuth fluoride has been demonstrated using pulsed thermolysis of fluorine azide and trimethyl bismuth mixtures. Recently, a table-top shock facility has been used to achieve unsaturated lasing in the same system. During the past ten years, over 400 articles and reports have resulted from this research program. This bibliography summarizes this Department of Defense sponsored research on short wavelength chemical lasers since 1980.

The national ignition facility: path to ignition in the laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moses, E. I.; Bonanno, R. E.; Haynam, C. A.; Kauffman, R. L.; MacGowan, B. J.; Patterson, R. W., Jr.; Sawicki, R. H.; van Wonterghem, B. M.

2007-08-01

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) is a 192-beam laser facility presently under construction at LLNL. When completed, NIF will be a 1.8-MJ, 500-TW ultraviolet laser system. Its missions are to obtain fusion ignition and to perform high energy density experiments in support of the US nuclear weapons stockpile. Four of the NIF beams have been commissioned to demonstrate laser performance and to commission the target area including target and beam alignment and laser timing. During this time, NIF demonstrated on a single-beam basis that it will meet its performance goals and demonstrated its precision and flexibility for pulse shaping, pointing, timing and beam conditioning. It also performed four important experiments for Inertial Confinement Fusion and High Energy Density Science. Presently, the project is installing production hardware to complete the project in 2009 with the goal to begin ignition experiments in 2010. An integrated plan has been developed including the NIF operations, user equipment such as diagnostics and cryogenic target capability, and experiments and calculations to meet this goal. This talk will provide NIF status, the plan to complete NIF, and the path to ignition.

Laser demonstration and performance characterization of optically pumped Alkali Laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulham, Clifford V.

Diode Pumped Alkali Lasers (DPALs) offer a promising approach for high power lasers in military applications that will not suffer from the long logistical trails of chemical lasers or the thermal management issues of diode pumped solid state lasers. This research focuses on characterizing a DPAL-type system to gain a better understanding of using this type of laser as a directed energy weapon. A rubidium laser operating at 795 nm is optically pumped by a pulsed titanium sapphire laser to investigate the dynamics of DPALs at pump intensities between 1.3 and 45 kW/cm2. Linear scaling as high as 32 times threshold is observed, with no evidence of second order kinetics. Comparison of laser characteristics with a quasi-two level analytic model suggests performance near the ideal steady-state limit, disregarding the mode mis-match. Additionally, the peak power scales linearly as high as 1 kW, suggesting aperture scaling to a few cm2 is sufficient to achieve tactical level laser powers. The temporal dynamics of the 100 ns pump and rubidium laser pulses are presented, and the continually evolving laser efficiency provides insight into the bottlenecking of the rubidium atoms in the 2P3/2 state. Lastly, multiple excited states of rubidium and cesium were accessed through two photon absorption in the red, yielding a blue and an IR photon through amplified stimulated emission. Threshold is modest at 0.3 mJ/pulse, and slope efficiencies increase dramatically with alkali concentrations and peak at 0.4%, with considerable opportunity for improvement. This versatile system might find applications for IR countermeasures or underwater communications.

Smart CMOS sensor for wideband laser threat detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwarze, Craig R.; Sonkusale, Sameer

2015-09-01

The proliferation of lasers has led to their widespread use in applications ranging from short range standoff chemical detection to long range Lidar sensing and target designation operating across the UV to LWIR spectrum. Recent advances in high energy lasers have renewed the development of laser weapons systems. The ability to measure and assess laser source information is important to both identify a potential threat as well as determine safety and nominal hazard zone (NHZ). Laser detection sensors are required that provide high dynamic range, wide spectral coverage, pulsed and continuous wave detection, and large field of view. OPTRA, Inc. and Tufts have developed a custom ROIC smart pixel imaging sensor architecture and wavelength encoding optics for measurement of source wavelength, pulse length, pulse repetition frequency (PRF), irradiance, and angle of arrival. The smart architecture provides dual linear and logarithmic operating modes to provide 8+ orders of signal dynamic range and nanosecond pulse measurement capability that can be hybridized with the appropriate detector array to provide UV through LWIR laser sensing. Recent advances in sputtering techniques provide the capability for post-processing CMOS dies from the foundry and patterning PbS and PbSe photoconductors directly on the chip to create a single monolithic sensor array architecture for measuring sources operating from 0.26 - 5.0 microns, 1 mW/cm2 - 2 kW/cm2.

Dead Zone Oscillator Control for Communication-Free Synchronization of Paralleled, Three-Phase, Current-Controlled Inverters

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-11

the phases of the system load and ground, so to size the voltage divider appropriately Vsys is set equal to the maximum phase-to-ground voltage. The...civilian and military systems is increasing due to technological improvements in power conversion and changing requirements in system loads. The development...of high-power pulsed loads on naval platforms, such as the Laser Weapon System (LaWS) and the electromagnetic railgun, calls for the ability to

Vapor-Phase Infrared Spectral Study of Weapons-Grade O-Ethyl S-2(diisopropylamino)ethyl methylphosphonothiolate (VX)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-01

instrument was equipped with deuterated triglycine sulfide and mercury-cadmium-telluride ( HgCdTe ) detectors and was capable of obtaining spectra with...helium-neon [HeNe] laser zero-crossing frequency) using the HgCdTe detector . Absorbance spectra of the vapor effluent were computed using background...weak [a = 0.00021 (umol/mol) ’m ’, which gave a prediction of A ~ 0.001] and close to the detector cutoff (root mean square [RMS] noise = 0.0002 A

The Air Land Sea Bulletin. Issue Number 2007-2, May 2007

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-05-01

the SCAR role the GR4 can be equipped with unguided 1,000 lb high/low drag weap- ons, GPS/laser-guided bombs, Brimstone anti- armour weapons, and a...Reconnaissance ( SCAR ) and the revision of our core publica- tion, Joint Application of Firepower (JFIRE). Both projects should be in print and in...sance or SCAR as it is known has been a core capability of the Royal Air Force (RAF) ground attack aircraft for many years but recent conflicts

Space Weaponization and US-China Relations

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

and his JD degree from the New York University School of Law. Mr. Blazejewski would like to thank Frank von Hippel and R. Scott Kemp for their comments...Totem and Taboo,” 18. 69. Krepon, “Lost in Space,” 7. 70. One suggestion by Frank von Hippel would be to try to detect the laser beam by its scattering...more.” Pillsbury Report, 9. 15. Statement by Eric D. Hagt in “Chinese Military Modernization and Its Impact on the United States and the Asia

ADST System Test Report for the Rotary Wing Aircraft Airnet Aeromodel and Weapon Model Merge with the ATAC 2 Baseline

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-01-20

Category 2 - Investigation/Debug Required ..................................... 11 Table 3-1 Field Test Report Status/Corrective Action...in Table 3-1 in section 3.1. The Field Test Reports and SP/CR’s are listed below for the two categories: Table 3.0-1. Category 1 - LADS PMO Direction...symbology, consisting Wing Aircraft of the laser code A - H plus the four digit data field shall be displayed for 10 seconds, after which time only

Joint Aerospace Weapon System Support, Sensors And Simulation Symposium (5th Annual). Held In San Diego, California on 13-18 June 1999

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-06-18

and 1.54 microns and to compute the spectral extinction coefficient. 3. Near IR (1.54 um) Laser rangefinders measure the time-of-flight of a short...quantitative understanding n n Research ( long term) n Encourage research in adaptive systems : evolutionary programming, genetic algorithms, neural nets... measures , such as false alarm rate , are not measurable in field applications. Other measures such as Incremental Fault Resolution, Operational Isolation

Origins of the Strategic Defense Initiative: Ballistic Missile Defense, 1944-1983

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-01

interactionwith NASA on the Space Station Freedom program and helpedwrite a research guide on military space activities for the National Air and Space...black stood up in the gallery and shouted : "I prophesy against ABM in the name of Jesus Christ!" After she was removed, the Senators began their...error at 7,575 miles. However, NASA had the advantage of having a much longer time to focus its telescope. A laser weapon must be swiftly pointed and

A simple method for computing the relativistic Compton scattering kernel for radiative transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prasad, M. K.; Kershaw, D. S.; Beason, J. D.

1986-01-01

Correct computation of the Compton scattering kernel (CSK), defined to be the Klein-Nishina differential cross section averaged over a relativistic Maxwellian electron distribution, is reported. The CSK is analytically reduced to a single integral, which can then be rapidly evaluated using a power series expansion, asymptotic series, and rational approximation for sigma(s). The CSK calculation has application to production codes that aim at understanding certain astrophysical, laser fusion, and nuclear weapons effects phenomena.

Weaponisation of Space - Some Legal Considerations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jolly, C.

2002-01-01

This paper will examine a current national initiative from the United States of America to achieve greater national security through the `weaponisation' of extra-atmospheric space. We will propose a synthesis of the current international legal framework pertaining to military activities in space. Based on the analysis of the legal regime and on some current national and regional political initiatives, we will make some practical recommendations to prevent an arms race in space. Civil remote sensing, telecommunications, and launchers launch vehicle technologies have all benefited from a military heritage. They are dual use technologies, in other words, technologies that have both military and civilian applications. In fact, space has always been militarised, ever since the first satellites were put in orbit for reconnaissance missions. But recently, some national policies and technological advances are making the militarisation of space less `discrete'. Military assets from different countries are already stationed in orbit (e.g. reconnaissance and navigation satellites), but they might soon be joined by new `space weapons' with lethal strike capabilities. Currently, in the United States, military and civilian space activities are being closely intertwined. A typical example is the call of the NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe, a former Secretary of the Navy, for closer cooperation on research and development between NASA and the Department of Defense. Concerning plans to station weapons in space, the American Air Force Space Command issued, in February 2000, its `Strategic Master Plan for FY02 and Beyond'. It states that the United States "...future Air Force Space Command capabilities will enable a fully integrated Aerospace Force to rapidly engage military forces worldwide. [...] Full spectrum dominance in the space medium will be achieved through total space situational awareness, protection of friendly space assets, prevention of unauthorized use of those assets, negation of adversarial use of space and a fully-capable National Missile Defense (NMD). [American] ICBMs will continue to provide a credible strategic deterrence, while advanced, conventional weapons operating in or through space will provide our National Command Authorities (NCA) with formidable and flexible options for prompt, global, conventional strike." As we will see in this paper, the current international legal framework restricting the stationing and use of weapons in space is composed mainly of three treaties. They are: the Treaty between the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Limitation of Anti-Ballistic Missile Systems (1972), called commonly the `ABM treaty', the `Outer Space Treaty' (1967) and the Treaty Banning Nuclear Weapon Tests in the Atmosphere, in Outer Space and Under Water (1963). We will also see that - contrary to public opinion - those current legal instruments, even coupled with other international legal texts, do not prohibit the `weaponisation' of space. For instance, The Article Four of the Outer Space Treaty is often cited as the main legal argument against militarisation of space. This article does indeed prohibit the installation or stationing of "any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction", "in orbit around the Earth", "on celestial bodies", "in outer space" and "in any other manner". But, aside from the weapons identified (nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction), nothing prohibits a government signatory to the Outer Space Treaty, to actually station other types of weapons in space, such as laser-based systems. In this paper, the current situation of potential `weaponisation' of space, the international impacts of such a policy and the gaps of the international legal framework concerning the militarisation of space, will prompt some comments and practical recommendations.

Volume-holographic memory for laser threat discrimination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delong, Mark L.; Duncan, Bradley D.; Parker, Jack H., Jr.

1996-10-01

Using conventional volume-holographic angle multiplexing in an Fe:LiNbO3 crystal, we have developed a compact laser threat discriminator, intended for aircraft integration, that optically detects laser spatial coherence and angle of arrival while simultaneously rejecting incoherent background sources, such as the Sun. The device is intended for a specific type of psychophysical laser attack against U.S. Air Force pilots, namely, third-world-country exploitation of inexpensive and powerful cw Ar-ion or doubled Nd:YAG lasers in the visible spectrum to blind or disorient U.S. pilots. The component does not solve the general tactical laser weapon situation, which includes identifying precision-guided munitions, range finders, and lidar systems that use pulsed infrared lasers. These are fundamentally different threats requiring different detector solutions. The device incorporates a sequence of highly redundant, simple black-and-white warning patterns that are keyed to be reconstructed as the incident laser threat, playing the role of an uncooperative probe beam, changes angle with respect to the crystal. The device tracks both azimuth and elevation, using a nonconventional hologram viewing system. Recording and playback conditions are simplified because nonzero cross talk is a desirable feature of this discriminator, inasmuch as our application requires a nonzero probability of detection for arbitrary directions of arrival within the sensor's field of view. The device can exploit phase-matched grating trade-off with probe-beam wavelength, accommodating wavelength-tunable threats, while still maintaining high direction-of-arrival tracking accuracy. .

Inertial-confinement fusion with lasers

DOE PAGES

Betti, R.; Hurricane, O. A.

2016-05-03

The quest for controlled fusion energy has been ongoing for over a half century. The demonstration of ignition and energy gain from thermonuclear fuels in the laboratory has been a major goal of fusion research for decades. Thermonuclear ignition is widely considered a milestone in the development of fusion energy, as well as a major scientific achievement with important applications to national security and basic sciences. The U.S. is arguably the world leader in the inertial con fment approach to fusion and has invested in large facilities to pursue it with the objective of establishing the science related to themore » safety and reliability of the stockpile of nuclear weapons. Even though significant progress has been made in recent years, major challenges still remain in the quest for thermonuclear ignition via laser fusion.« less

The thermo-optical behavior of turbid composite laminates under highly energetic laser irradiations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allheily, Vadim; Merlat, Lionel; Lacroix, Fabrice; Eichhorn, Alfred; L'Hostis, Gildas

2017-01-01

From their prior emergence in the military domain but also nowadays in the civilian area, unmanned air vehicles constitute a growing threat to the todays civilization. In this respect, novel laser weapons are considered to eradicate this menace and the vulnerability of typical aeronautic materials under 1.07μm-wavelength irradiations is also investigated. In this paper, Kubelka-Munk optical parameters of laminated glass fiber-reinforced plastic composites are first assessed to build up a basic analytical interaction model involving internal refraction and reflection as well as the scattering effect due to the presence of glass fibers. Moreover, a thermo-gravimetric analysis is carried out and the kinetic parameters of the decomposition reaction extracted from this test with the Friedman method are verified trough a comparison with experimental measurements.

Development of a ten inch manipulators-based, flexible, broadband two-crystal spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steel, A. B.; Dunn, J.; Emig, J.; Beiersdorfer, P.; Brown, G. V.; Shepherd, R.; Marley, E. V.; Hoarty, D. J.

2014-11-01

We have developed and implemented a broadband X-ray spectrometer with a variable energy range for use at the Atomic Weapons Establishment's Orion Laser. The spectrometer covers an energy bandwidth of ˜1-2 keV using two independently mounted, movable Bragg diffraction crystals. Using combinations of cesium hydrogen pthlate, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, and pentaerythritol crystals, spectra covering the 1.4-2.5, 1.85-3.15, or 3.55-5.1 keV energy bands have been measured. Image plate is used for detection owing to its high dynamic range. Background signals caused by high energy X-rays and particles commonly produced in high energy laser experiments are reduced by a series of tantalum baffles and filters installed between the source and crystal and also between the crystals and detector.

Development of a ten inch manipulators-based, flexible, broadband two-crystal spectrometer.

PubMed

Steel, A B; Dunn, J; Emig, J; Beiersdorfer, P; Brown, G V; Shepherd, R; Marley, E V; Hoarty, D J

2014-11-01

We have developed and implemented a broadband X-ray spectrometer with a variable energy range for use at the Atomic Weapons Establishment's Orion Laser. The spectrometer covers an energy bandwidth of ∼1-2 keV using two independently mounted, movable Bragg diffraction crystals. Using combinations of cesium hydrogen pthlate, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, and pentaerythritol crystals, spectra covering the 1.4-2.5, 1.85-3.15, or 3.55-5.1 keV energy bands have been measured. Image plate is used for detection owing to its high dynamic range. Background signals caused by high energy X-rays and particles commonly produced in high energy laser experiments are reduced by a series of tantalum baffles and filters installed between the source and crystal and also between the crystals and detector.

Research on the liquid coolant applied in the high repetition rate slab amplifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Bingyan; Li, Yangshuai; Zhang, Panzheng; Wang, Li; Zhang, Yanli; Feng, Tao; Zhou, Qiong; Liu, Qiang; Li, Haiyuan; Zhang, Xu; Zhou, Shenlei; Ma, Weixin; Zhu, Jian; Zhu, Jianqiang

2018-03-01

High repetition rate slab amplifier (HRRSA) is extraordinarily indispensable for the future fusion power plant, ultra-short laser, laser weapon, and so on. Thermal controlling is the decisive factor for the repetition rate and the output energy of the slab amplifier. For larger clear aperture HRRSA, flash-lamp pumped slab amplifier based on neodymium phosphate glass (Nd:glass) is chosen with the liquid cooling. The liquid coolant circulates across the Nd:glass and takes off the thermal induced in the pumping process. A novel liquid coolant (Series A) whose refractive index is the same with Nd:glass is proposed to alleviate the wavefront distortion induced by thermal. The chemical stability of the liquid coolant under high energy flash-lamp irradiation with 200 shots and under the irradiation of a 1053nm laser with 19 hours and 37 hours are experimented. The results show that the chemical stability of the liquid coolant is stable under irradiation.

Accomplishments in the Trident Laser Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fernandez, Juan Carlos

Trident has been an extremely productive laser facility, despite its modest size and operating cost in the firmament of high-energy, high-power laser facilities worldwide. More than 150 peer-reviewed journal articles (in 39 different journals) have been published using Trident experimental data, many in high-impact journals such as Nature, Nature Physics, Nature Communications, and Physical Review Letters. More than 230 oral presentations involving research at Trident have been presented at national and international conferences. Trident publications have over 5000 citations in the literature with an h-index of 38. AT least 23 Los Alamos postdoctoral researchers have worked on Trident. In themore » period since its inception in 1992-2007, despite not issuing formal proposal calls for access nor functioning explicitly as a user facility until later, Trident has 170 unique users from more than 30 unique institutions, such as Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore, and Sandia national laboratories, various University of California campuses, General Atomic, Imperial College, and Ecole Polytechnique. To reinforce its role as an important Los Alamos point of connection to the external research community, at least 20 PhD students did a significant fraction of their thesis work on Trident. Such PhD students include Mike Dunne (Imperial College, 1995) - now director of LCLS and professor at Stanford; David Hoarty (IC, 1997) - scientist at Atomic Weapons Establishment, UK; Dustin Froula (UC Davis, 2002) - Plasma and Ultrafast Physics Group leader at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics and assistant professor at the Physics and Astronomy Department at the University of Rochester; Tom Tierney (UC Irvine, 2002) - scientist at Los Alamos; Eric Loomis (Arizona State U., 2005) - scientist at Los Alamos; and Eliseo Gamboa (University of Michigan, 2013) - scientist at the Linac Coherent Light Source. The work performed on Trident, besides its scientific impact, has also supported the Inertial Confinement Fusion and Weapons research programs at the Laboratory. It also has advanced technologies and techniques that hold significant promise for Los Alamos initiatives, such as MaRIE (the proposed Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes experimental facility), and more generally for important societal applications, such as defense, global security, advanced accelerators, fusion energy, radiotherapy, and laser technology. Specific research contributions based on Trident experiments are listed below.« less

Defender-Attacker Decision Tree Analysis to Combat Terrorism.

PubMed

Garcia, Ryan J B; von Winterfeldt, Detlof

2016-12-01

We propose a methodology, called defender-attacker decision tree analysis, to evaluate defensive actions against terrorist attacks in a dynamic and hostile environment. Like most game-theoretic formulations of this problem, we assume that the defenders act rationally by maximizing their expected utility or minimizing their expected costs. However, we do not assume that attackers maximize their expected utilities. Instead, we encode the defender's limited knowledge about the attacker's motivations and capabilities as a conditional probability distribution over the attacker's decisions. We apply this methodology to the problem of defending against possible terrorist attacks on commercial airplanes, using one of three weapons: infrared-guided MANPADS (man-portable air defense systems), laser-guided MANPADS, or visually targeted RPGs (rocket propelled grenades). We also evaluate three countermeasures against these weapons: DIRCMs (directional infrared countermeasures), perimeter control around the airport, and hardening airplanes. The model includes deterrence effects, the effectiveness of the countermeasures, and the substitution of weapons and targets once a specific countermeasure is selected. It also includes a second stage of defensive decisions after an attack occurs. Key findings are: (1) due to the high cost of the countermeasures, not implementing countermeasures is the preferred defensive alternative for a large range of parameters; (2) if the probability of an attack and the associated consequences are large, a combination of DIRCMs and ground perimeter control are preferred over any single countermeasure. © 2016 Society for Risk Analysis.

Optical countermeasures against CLOS weapon systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toet, Alexander; Benoist, Koen W.; van Lingen, Joost N. J.; Schleijpen, H. Ric M. A.

2013-10-01

There are many weapon systems in which a human operator acquires a target, tracks it and designates it. Optical countermeasures against this type of systems deny the operator the possibility to fulfill this visual task. We describe the different effects that result from stimulation of the human visual system with high intensity (visible) light, and the associated potential operational impact. Of practical use are flash blindness, where an intense flash of light produces a temporary "blind-spot" in (part of) the visual field, flicker distraction, where strong intensity and/or color changes at a discomfortable frequency are produced, and disability glare where a source of light leads to contrast reduction. Hence there are three possibilities to disrupt the visual task of an operator with optical countermeasures such as flares or lasers or a combination of these; namely, by an intense flash of light, by an annoying light flicker or by a glare source. A variety of flares for this purpose is now available or under development: high intensity flash flares, continuous burning flares or strobe flares which have an oscillating intensity. The use of flare arrays seems particularly promising as an optical countermeasure. Lasers are particularly suited to interfere with human vision, because they can easily be varied in intensity, color and size, but they have to be directed at the (human) target, and issues like pointing and eye-safety have to be taken into account. Here we discuss the design issues and the operational impact of optical countermeasures against human operators.

Remote Chemical Sensing Using Quantum Cascade Lasers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Harper, Warren W.; Schultz, John F.

2003-01-30

Spectroscopic chemical sensing research at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is focused on developing advanced sensors for detecting the production of nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons; use of chemical weapons; or the presence of explosives, firearms, narcotics, or other contraband of significance to homeland security in airports, cargo terminals, public buildings, or other sensitive locations. For most of these missions, the signature chemicals are expected to occur in very low concentrations, and in mixture with ambient air or airborne waste streams that contain large numbers of other species that may interfere with spectroscopic detection, or be mistaken for signatures ofmore » illicit activity. PNNL’s emphasis is therefore on developing remote and sampling sensors with extreme sensitivity, and resistance to interferents, or selectivity. PNNL’s research activities include: 1. Identification of signature chemicals and quantification of their spectral characteristics, 2. Identification and development of laser and other technologies that enable breakthroughs in sensitivity and selectivity, 3. Development of promising sensing techniques through experimentation and modeling the physical phenomenology and practical engineering limitations affecting their performance, and 4. Development and testing of data collection methods and analysis algorithms. Close coordination of all aspects of the research is important to ensure that all parts are focused on productive avenues of investigation. Close coordination of experimental development and numerical modeling is particularly important because the theoretical component provides understanding and predictive capability, while the experiments validate calculations and ensure that all phenomena and engineering limitations are considered.« less

Database for chemical weapons detection: first results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bellecci, C.; Gaudio, P.; Gelfusa, M.; Martellucci, S.; Richetta, M.; Ventura, P.; Antonucci, A.; Pasquino, F.; Ricci, V.; Sassolini, A.

2008-10-01

The quick increase of terrorism and asymmetric war is leading towards new needs involving defense and security. Nowadays we have to fight several kind of threats and use of chemical weapons against civil or military objectives is one of the most dangerous. For this reason it is necessary to find equipment, know-how and information that are useful in order to detect and identify dangerous molecules as quickly and far away as possible, so to minimize damage. Lidar/Dial are some of the most powerful optical technologies. Dial technology use two different wavelengths, in order to measure concentration profile of an investigated molecule. For this reason it is needed a "fingerprint" database which consists of an exhaustive collection of absorption coefficients data so to identify each molecule avoiding confusion with interfering ones. Nowadays there is not such a collection of data in scientific and technical literature. We used an FT-IR spectrometer and a CO2 laser source for absorption spectroscopy measurements using cells filled with the investigated molecules. The CO2 source is the transmitter of our DIAL facility. In this way we can make a proper "fingerprint" database necessary to identify dangerous molecules. The CO2 laser has been chosen because it is eye safe and, mainly, because it covers a spectral band where there is good absorption for this kind of molecules. In this paper IR spectra of mustard will be presented and compared to other substances which may interfere producing a false alarm. Methodology, experimental setup and first results are described.

Validation and verification of the laser range safety tool (LRST)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kennedy, Paul K.; Keppler, Kenneth S.; Thomas, Robert J.; Polhamus, Garrett D.; Smith, Peter A.; Trevino, Javier O.; Seaman, Daniel V.; Gallaway, Robert A.; Crockett, Gregg A.

2003-06-01

The U.S. Dept. of Defense (DOD) is currently developing and testing a number of High Energy Laser (HEL) weapons systems. DOD range safety officers now face the challenge of designing safe methods of testing HEL's on DOD ranges. In particular, safety officers need to ensure that diffuse and specular reflections from HEL system targets, as well as direct beam paths, are contained within DOD boundaries. If both the laser source and the target are moving, as they are for the Airborne Laser (ABL), a complex series of calculations is required and manual calculations are impractical. Over the past 5 years, the Optical Radiation Branch of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/HEDO), the ABL System Program Office, Logicon-RDA, and Northrup-Grumman, have worked together to develop a computer model called teh Laser Range Safety Tool (LRST), specifically designed for HEL reflection hazard analyses. The code, which is still under development, is currently tailored to support the ABL program. AFRL/HEDO has led an LRST Validation and Verification (V&V) effort since 1998, in order to determine if code predictions are accurate. This paper summarizes LRST V&V efforts to date including: i) comparison of code results with laboratory measurements of reflected laser energy and with reflection measurements made during actual HEL field tests, and ii) validation of LRST's hazard zone computations.

The national ignition facility: Path to ignition in the laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moses, E. I.; Bonanno, R. E.; Haynam, C. A.; Kauffman, R. L.; MacGowan, B. J.; Patterson, R. W., Jr.; Sawicki, R. H.; van Wonterghem, B. M.

2006-06-01

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) is a 192-beam laser facility presently under construction at LLNL. When completed, NIF will be a 1.8-MJ, 500-TW ultraviolet laser system. Its missions are to obtain fusion ignition and to perform high energy density experiments in support of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. Four of the NIF beams have been commissioned to demonstrate laser performance and to commission the target area including target and beam alignment and laser timing. During this time, NIF demonstrated on a single-beam basis that it will meet its performance goals and demonstrated its precision and flexibility for pulse shaping, pointing, timing and beam conditioning. It also performed four important experiments for Inertial Confinement Fusion and High Energy Density Science. Presently, the project is installing production hardware to complete the project in 2009 with the goal to begin ignition experiments in 2010. An integrated plan has been developed including the NIF operations, user equipment such as diagnostics and cryogenic target capability, and experiments and calculations to meet this goal. This talk will provide NIF status, the plan to complete NIF, and the path to ignition.

Limits of performance: CW laser damage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shah, Rashmi S.; Rey, Justin J.; Stewart, Alan F.

2007-01-01

High performance optical coatings are an enabling technology for many applications - navigation systems, telecom, fusion, advanced measurement systems of many types as well as directed energy weapons. The results of recent testing of superior optical coatings conducted at high flux levels have been presented. Failure of these coatings was rare. However, induced damage was not expected from simple thermal models relating flux loading to induced temperatures. Clearly, other mechanisms must play a role in the occurrence of laser damage. Contamination is an obvious mechanism-both particulate and molecular. Less obvious are structural defects and the role of induced stresses. These mechanisms are examined through simplified models and finite element analysis. The results of the models are compared to experiment, for induced temperatures and observed stress levels. The role of each mechanism is described and limiting performance is determined.

Simulations of far-field optical beam quality influenced by the thermal distortion of the secondary mirror for high-power laser system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Ruhai; Chen, Ning; Zhuang, Xinyu; Wang, Bing

2015-02-01

In order to research the influence on the beam quality due to thermal deformation of the secondary mirror in the high power laser system, the theoretical simulation study is performed. Firstly, three typical laser power 10kW, 50kW and 100kW with the wavelength 1.064μm are selected to analyze thermal deformation of mirror through the finite element analyze of thermodynamics instantaneous method. Then the wavefront aberration can be calculated by ray-tracing theory. Finally, focus spot radius，beam quality (BQ) of far-filed beam can be calculated and comparably analyzed by Fresnel diffraction integration. The simulation results show that with the increasing laser power, the optical aberration of beam director gets worse, the far-field optical beam quality decrease, which makes the laser focus spot broadening and the peak optical intensity of center decreasing dramatically. Comparing the clamping ring and the three-point clamping, the former is better than the latter because the former only induces the rotation symmetric deformation and the latter introduces additional astigmatism. The far-field optical beam quality can be improved partly by simply adjusting the distance between the main mirror and the secondary mirror. But the far-field power density is still the one tenth as that without the heat distortion of secondary mirror. These results can also provide the reference to the thermal aberration analyze for high power laser system and can be applied to the field of laser communication system and laser weapon etc.

An Adaptive H infinity Control Algorithm for Jitter Control and Target Tracking in a Directed Energy Weapon

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-16

large size and lack of efficiency of current technology after initial review. In the 1990’s the Air Force designed and produced a high- altitude ...Forden, G.E., "The airborne laser," Spectrum, IEEE , vol.34, no.9, pp.40-49, Sep 1997 10 altitude of 40,000 ft. the atmosphere was much clearer...distance remains the same. OT-5 provides a relative position of beam center on the detector. Two voltage outputs are given corresponding to x-axis location

Future Force Warrior: Insights from Air Assault Expeditionary Force Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-07-01

your bearing and distance to the target instead of walking along a line. 1 Change the goggles’ pattern. 1 Get rid of the goggles and instead use...weapon. 1 Get my eyes corrected with laser; this system is not for Soldiers with glasses. 1 Get rid of the goggles and have live up-to-date bearing...10 hrs/ PDA stand alone 8 hrs. 1 5. How long does it take to get the radios functional at the beginning of each day and what are the problems

3D-additive manufactured optical mount

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mammini, Paul V.; Ciscel, David; Wooten, John

2015-09-01

The Area Defense Anti-Munitions (ADAM) is a low cost and effective high power laser weapon system. It's designed to address and negate important threats such as short-range rockets, UAVs, and small boats. Many critical optical components operate in the system. The optics and mounts must accommodate thermal and mechanical stresses, plus maintain an exceptional wave front during operation. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company (LMSSC) developed, designed, and currently operates ADAM. This paper covers the design and development of a key monolithic, flexured, titanium mirror mount that was manufactured by CalRAM using additive processes.

Precision guided antiaircraft munition

DOEpatents

Hirschfeld, Tomas B.

1987-01-01

A small diameter, 20 mm to 50 mm, guided projectile is used in antiaircraft defense. A pulsing laser designator illuminates the target aircraft. Energy reflected from the aircraft is received by the guided projectile. The guided projectile is fired from a standard weapon but the spining caused by the riflings are removed before active tracking and guidance occurs. The received energy is focused by immersion optics onto a bridge cell. AC coupling and gating removes background and allows steering signals to move extended vanes by means of piezoelectric actuators in the rear of the guided projectile.

International Infantry and Joint Services Small Arms Systems Section Symposium, Exhibition and Firing Demonstration. Held in Atlantic City, NJ on 13-16 May 2002. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-05-13

Atlantic Council NATO Army Armaments Group 30mm x 173 Ammunition Family by Allan Buckley & Pierre H. Freymond, Oerlikon Contraves Pyrotec AG Thursday, 16 May...actual weapon w/o adding weight • Compatible with LASER-activated battle simulators (MILES) 5.56mm FX - NDIA 2002.PPT (15.05.02) (11) FX® Marking...construction and design – Packaging inspection – Interfaces – Weight – Final protective finish – Endurance at ambient – Rough handling – Workmanship

Department of the Air Force Supporting Data For Fiscal Year 1984 Budget Estimates Submitted to Congress, January 31, 1983. Descriptive Summaries, Research, Development, Test and Evaluation

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-01-01

formulated to achieve weight savings, successfully completed a 100 hour pump test with no loss of fluid viscosity. Initial synthetic approaches to...acquisition cost savings in one concept and 51 percent weight savings in another. (9) (U) Advanced 3D Materials: Demonstrated the feasibility of using...in the gas phase. This research will provide the basis for future laser weapons that are more efficient, powerful, and lighter weight than infrared

Chemical-biological defense remote sensing: what's happening

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrico, John P.

1998-08-01

The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) continues to be a serious threat to the security of the US. Proliferation of chemical and biological (CB) weapons is particularly disturbing, and the threats posed can be devastating. Critical elements of the US efforts to reduce and counter WMD proliferation include: (1) the location and characterization of WMD facilities and capabilities worldwide; (2) the ability to rapidly detect and identify the use of CB weapons for expeditious warning and reporting on the battlefield; and (3) the capability to mitigate deleterious consequences of a CB incident through effective protective and medical treatment measures. Remote sensing has been touted as a key technology in these efforts. Historically, the role of remote sensing in CB defense has been to provide early warning of an attack from an extended distance. However, additional roles for remote sensing in CB defense, as well as applications in related missions, are possible and should be pursued. This paper examines what has been happening in remote sensing over the past decade to address needs in this area. Accomplishments, emerging technologies, programmatic issues, and opportunities for the future are covered. The Department of Defence chemical- biological, the Department of Energy's Chemical Analysis by Laser Interrogation of Proliferation Effluents, and other agency related programs are examined. Also, the status of remote sensing in the commercial market arena for environmental monitoring, its relevance to the WMD counterproliferation program, and opportunities for technology transfer are discussed. A course of action for the future is recommended.

Optoelectronics applications in multimedia shooting training systems: SPARTAN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glogowski, Tomasz; Hlosta, Pawel; Stepniak, Slawomir; Swiderski, Waldemar

2017-10-01

Multimedia shooting training systems are increasingly being used in the training of security staff and uniformed services. An advanced practicing-training system SPARTAN for simulation of small arms shooting has been designed and manufactured by Autocomp Management Ltd. and Military Institute of Armament Technology for the Polish Ministry of National Defence. SPARTAN is a stationary device designed to teach, monitor and evaluate the targeting of small arms and to prepare soldiers for: • firing the live ammunition at open ranges for combat targets and silhouettes • detection, classification and engagement of real targets upon different terrains, weather conditions and periods during the day • team work as a squad during the mission by using different types of arms • suitable reactions in untypical scenarios. Placed in any room the training set consists of: • the projection system that generates realistic 3D imaging of the battlefield (such as combat shooting range) in high-resolution • system that tracks weapons aiming points • sound system which delivers realistic mapping of acoustic surroundings • operator station with which the training is conducted and controlled • central processing unit based on PC computers equipped with specialist software realizing individual system functions • units of smart weapons equipped with radio communication modules, injection laser diodes and pneumatic reloading system. The system make possible training by firing in dynamic scenarios, using combat weapons and live ammunition against visible targets moving on a screen. The use of infrared camera for detecting the position of impact of a projectile.

Beam shaping by using small-aperture SLM and DM in a high power laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Sensen; Lu, Zhiwei; Du, Pengyuan; Wang, Yulei; Ding, Lei; Yan, Xiusheng

2018-03-01

High-power laser plays an important role in many fields, such as directed energy weapon, optoelectronic contermeasures, inertial confinement fusion, industrial processing and scientific research. The uniform nearfield and wavefront are the important part of the beam quality for high power lasers, which is conducive to maintaining the high spatial beam quality in propagation. We demonstrate experimentally that the spatial intensity and wavefront distribution at the output is well compensated in the complex high-power solid-state laser system by using the small-aperture spatial light modulator (SLM) and deformable mirror (DM) in the front stage. The experimental setup is a hundred-Joule-level Nd:glass laser system operating at three wavelengths at 1053 nm (1ω), 527 nm (2ω) and 351 nm (3ω) with 3 ns pulse duration with the final output beam aperture of 60 mm. While the clear arperture of the electrically addressable SLM is less than 20 mm and the effective diameter of the 52-actuators DM is about 15 mm. In the beam shaping system, the key point is that the two front-stage beam shaping devices needs to precompensate the gain nonuniform and wavefront distortion of the laser system. The details of the iterative algorithm for improving the beam quality are presented. Experimental results show that output nearfield and wavefont are both nearly flat-topped with the nearfield modulation of 1.26:1 and wavefront peak-to-valley value of 0.29 λ at 1053nm after beam shaping.

Diamond Microchannel Heat Sink Designs For High Heat Flux Thermal Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corbin, Michael V.; DeBenedictis, Matthew M.; James, David B.; LeBlanc, Stephen P.; Paradis, Leo R.

2002-08-01

Directed energy weapons, wide band gap semiconductor based radars, and other powerful systems present significant thermal control challenges to component designers. heat Flux levels approaching 2000 W/cm(2) are encountered at the base of laser diodes, and levels as high as 500 WI /cm(2) are expected in laser slabs and power amplifier tube collectors. These impressive heat flux levels frequently combine with strict operating temperature requirements to further compound the thermal control problem. Many investigators have suggested the use of diamond heat spreaders to reduce flux levels at or near to its source, and some have suggested that diamond microchannel heat sinks ultimately may play a significant role in the solution of these problems. Design engineers at Raytheon Company have investigated the application of all-diamond microchannel heat sinks to representative high heat flux problems and have found the approach promising. Diamond microchannel fabrication feasibility has been demonstrated; integration into packaging systems and the accompanying material compatibility issues have been addressed; and thermal and hydrodynamic performance predictions have been made for selected, possible applications. An example of a practical, all diamond microchannel heat sink has been fabricated, and another is in process and will be performance tested. The heat sink assembly is made entirely of optical quality, CVD diamond and is of sufficient strength to withstand the thermal and pressure-induced mechanical loads associated with manufacture and use in tactical weapons environment. The work presented describes the development program's accomplishments to date, and highlights many of the areas for future study.

Spectral and temperature-dependent infrared emissivity measurements of painted metals for improved temperature estimation during laser damage testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baumann, Sean M.; Keenan, Cameron; Marciniak, Michael A.; Perram, Glen P.

2014-10-01

A database of spectral and temperature-dependent emissivities was created for painted Al-alloy laser-damage-testing targets for the purpose of improving the uncertainty to which temperature on the front and back target surfaces may be estimated during laser-damage testing. Previous temperature estimates had been made by fitting an assumed gray-body radiance curve to the calibrated spectral radiance data collected from the back surface using a Telops Imaging Fourier Transform Spectrometer (IFTS). In this work, temperature-dependent spectral emissivity measurements of the samples were made from room temperature to 500 °C using a Surface Optics Corp. SOC-100 Hemispherical Directional Reflectometer (HDR) with Nicolet FTS. Of particular interest was a high-temperature matte-black enamel paint used to coat the rear surfaces of the Al-alloy samples. The paint had been assumed to have a spectrally flat and temperatureinvariant emissivity. However, the data collected using the HDR showed both spectral variation and temperature dependence. The uncertainty in back-surface temperature estimation during laser-damage testing made using the measured emissivities was improved from greater than +10 °C to less than +5 °C for IFTS pixels away from the laser burn-through hole, where temperatures never exceeded those used in the SOC-100 HDR measurements. At beam center, where temperatures exceeded those used in the SOC-100 HDR, uncertainty in temperature estimates grew beyond those made assuming gray-body emissivity. Accurate temperature estimations during laser-damage testing are useful in informing a predictive model for future high-energy-laser weapon applications.

Proposal of a defense application for a chemical oxygen laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takehisa, K.

2015-05-01

Defense application for a chemical oxygen laser (COL) is explained. Although a COL has not yet been successful in lasing, the oscillator was estimated to produce a giant pulse with the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of ~0.05ms which makes the damage threshold for the mirrors several-order higher than that for a typical solid-state laser with a ~10ns pulse width. Therefore it has a potential to produce MJ class output considering the simple scalability of being a chemical laser. Since within 0.05ms a supersonic aircraft can move only a few centimeters which is roughly equal to the spot size of the focused beam at ~10km away using a large-diameter focusing mirror, a COL has a potential to make a damage to an enemy aircraft by a single shot without beam tracking. But since the extracted beam can propagate up to a few kilometers due to the absorption in the air, it may be suitable to use in space. While a chemical oxygen-iodine laser (COIL) can give a pulsed output with a width of ~2 ms using a high-pressure singlet oxygen generator (SOG). Therefore a pulsed COIL may also not require beam tracking if a target aircraft is approaching. Another advantage for these pulsed high-energy lasers (HELs) is that, in case of propagating in cloud or fog, much less energy is required for a laser for aerosol vaporization (LAV) than that of a LAV for a CW HEL. Considerations to use a COL as a directed energy weapon (DEW) in a point defense system are shown.

From Confrontation to Cooperation: 8th International Seminar on Nuclear War

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zichichi, A.; Dardo, M.

1992-09-01

The Table of Contents for the full book PDF is as follows: * OPENING SESSION * A. Zichichi: Opening Statements * R. Nicolosi: Opening Statements * MESSAGES * CONTRIBUTIONS * "The Contribution of the Erice Seminars in East-West-North-South Scientific Relations" * 1. LASER TECHNOLOGY * "Progress in laser technology" * "Progress in laboratory high gain ICF: prospects for the future" * "Applications of laser in metallurgy" * "Laser tissue interactions in medicine and surgery" * "Laser fusion" * "Compact X-ray lasers in the laboratory" * "Alternative method for inertial confinement" * "Laser technology in China" * 2. NUCLEAR AND CHEMICAL SAFETY * "Reactor safety and reactor design" * "Thereotical analysis and numerical modelling of heat transfer and fuel migration in underlying soils and constructive elements of nuclear plants during an accident release from the core" * "How really to attain reactor safely" * "The problem of chemical weapons" * "Long terms genetic effects of nuclear and chemical accidents" * "Features of the brain which are of importance in understanding the mode of operation of toxic substances and of radiation" * "CO2 and ultra safe reactors" * 3. USE OF MISSILES * "How to convert INF technology for peaceful scientific purposes" * "Beating words into plowshares: a proposal for the peaceful uses of retired nuclear warheads" * "Some thoughts on the peaceful use of retired nuclear warheads" * "Status of the HEFEST project" * 4. OZONE * "Status of the ozone layer problem" * 5. CONVENTIONAL AND NUCLEAR FORCE RESTRUCTURING IN EUROPE * 6. CONFLICT AVOIDANCE MODEL * 7. GENERAL DISCUSSION OF THE WORLD LAB PROJECTS * "East-West-North-South Collaboration in Subnuclear Physics" * "Status of the World Lab in the USSR" * CLOSING SESSION

Method and apparatus for coherent imaging of infrared energy

DOEpatents

Hutchinson, Donald P.

1998-01-01

A coherent camera system performs ranging, spectroscopy, and thermal imaging. Local oscillator radiation is combined with target scene radiation to enable heterodyne detection by the coherent camera's two-dimensional photodetector array. Versatility enables deployment of the system in either a passive mode (where no laser energy is actively transmitted toward the target scene) or an active mode (where a transmitting laser is used to actively illuminate the target scene). The two-dimensional photodetector array eliminates the need to mechanically scan the detector. Each element of the photodetector array produces an intermediate frequency signal that is amplified, filtered, and rectified by the coherent camera's integrated circuitry. By spectroscopic examination of the frequency components of each pixel of the detector array, a high-resolution, three-dimensional or holographic image of the target scene is produced for applications such as air pollution studies, atmospheric disturbance monitoring, and military weapons targeting.

Method and apparatus for coherent imaging of infrared energy

DOEpatents

Hutchinson, D.P.

1998-05-12

A coherent camera system performs ranging, spectroscopy, and thermal imaging. Local oscillator radiation is combined with target scene radiation to enable heterodyne detection by the coherent camera`s two-dimensional photodetector array. Versatility enables deployment of the system in either a passive mode (where no laser energy is actively transmitted toward the target scene) or an active mode (where a transmitting laser is used to actively illuminate the target scene). The two-dimensional photodetector array eliminates the need to mechanically scan the detector. Each element of the photodetector array produces an intermediate frequency signal that is amplified, filtered, and rectified by the coherent camera`s integrated circuitry. By spectroscopic examination of the frequency components of each pixel of the detector array, a high-resolution, three-dimensional or holographic image of the target scene is produced for applications such as air pollution studies, atmospheric disturbance monitoring, and military weapons targeting. 8 figs.

Inertial-confinement fusion with lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Betti, R.; Hurricane, O. A.

2016-05-01

The quest for controlled fusion energy has been ongoing for over a half century. The demonstration of ignition and energy gain from thermonuclear fuels in the laboratory has been a major goal of fusion research for decades. Thermonuclear ignition is widely considered a milestone in the development of fusion energy, as well as a major scientific achievement with important applications in national security and basic sciences. The US is arguably the world leader in the inertial confinement approach to fusion and has invested in large facilities to pursue it, with the objective of establishing the science related to the safety and reliability of the stockpile of nuclear weapons. Although significant progress has been made in recent years, major challenges still remain in the quest for thermonuclear ignition via laser fusion. Here, we review the current state of the art in inertial confinement fusion research and describe the underlying physical principles.

Retinal vein occlusion: current treatment.

PubMed

Lattanzio, Rosangela; Torres Gimeno, Ana; Battaglia Parodi, Maurizio; Bandello, Francesco

2011-01-01

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a pathology noted for more than 150 years. Although a lot has been written on the matter, it is still a frequent condition with multifactorial etiopathogenesis with many unclear aspects. The RVO pathogenesis has varied systemic and local implications that make it difficult to elaborate treatment guidelines. The management of the patient with RVO is very complex and a multidisciplinary approach is required in order to identify and correct the associated risk factors. Laser therapy remains the gold standard in RVO, but only modest functional improvement has been shown in branch retinal occlusion forms. Multicenter studies of intravitreal drugs present them as an option to combine with laser. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor, corticosteroids and sustained-release implants are the future weapons to stop disease progression and get a better visual outcome. Consequently, it is useful to clarify some aspects of the pathology that allow a better patient management. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Damping Goes the Distance in Golf

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2004-01-01

In the late 1980s, Dr. Benjamin Dolgin of NASA s Jet Propulsion Laboratory developed a concept for a high-damping graphite/viscoelastic material for the Strategic Defense Initiative (popularly referred to as "Star Wars"), as part of a space-based laser anti-missile program called "Asterix." Dolgin drummed up this concept with the intention of stabilizing weapons launch platforms in space, where there is no solid ground to firmly support these structures. Without the inclusion of high-damping material, the orbital platforms were said to vibrate for 20 minutes after force was applied - a rate deemed "unacceptable" by leaders of the Strategic Defense Initiative.

High-brightness displays in integrated weapon sight systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, Tim; Hogan, Tim

2014-06-01

In the past several years Kopin has demonstrated the ability to provide ultra-high brightness, low power display solutions in VGA, SVGA, SXGA and 2k x 2k display formats. This paper will review various approaches for integrating high brightness overlay displays with existing direct view rifle sights and augmenting their precision aiming and targeting capability. Examples of overlay display systems solutions will be presented and discussed. This paper will review significant capability enhancements that are possible when augmenting the real-world as seen through a rifle sight with other soldier system equipment including laser range finders, ballistic computers and sensor systems.

OCCIMA: Optical Channel Characterization in Maritime Atmospheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hammel, Steve; Tsintikidis, Dimitri; deGrassie, John; Reinhardt, Colin; McBryde, Kevin; Hallenborg, Eric; Wayne, David; Gibson, Kristofor; Cauble, Galen; Ascencio, Ana; Rudiger, Joshua

2015-05-01

The Navy is actively developing diverse optical application areas, including high-energy laser weapons and free- space optical communications, which depend on an accurate and timely knowledge of the state of the atmospheric channel. The Optical Channel Characterization in Maritime Atmospheres (OCCIMA) project is a comprehensive program to coalesce and extend the current capability to characterize the maritime atmosphere for all optical and infrared wavelengths. The program goal is the development of a unified and validated analysis toolbox. The foundational design for this program coordinates the development of sensors, measurement protocols, analytical models, and basic physics necessary to fulfill this goal.

Advanced fighter technology integration (AFTI)/F-16 Automated Maneuvering Attack System final flight test results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dowden, Donald J.; Bessette, Denis E.

1987-01-01

The AFTI F-16 Automated Maneuvering Attack System has undergone developmental and demonstration flight testing over a total of 347.3 flying hours in 237 sorties. The emphasis of this phase of the flight test program was on the development of automated guidance and control systems for air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons delivery, using a digital flight control system, dual avionics multiplex buses, an advanced FLIR sensor with laser ranger, integrated flight/fire-control software, advanced cockpit display and controls, and modified core Multinational Stage Improvement Program avionics.

Diagnostic methods for CW laser damage testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stewart, Alan F.; Shah, Rashmi S.

2004-06-01

High performance optical coatings are an enabling technology for many applications - navigation systems, telecom, fusion, advanced measurement systems of many types as well as directed energy weapons. The results of recent testing of superior optical coatings conducted at high flux levels will be presented. The diagnostics used in this type of nondestructive testing and the analysis of the data demonstrates the evolution of test methodology. Comparison of performance data under load to the predictions of thermal and optical models shows excellent agreement. These tests serve to anchor the models and validate the performance of the materials and coatings.

Analysis of laser jamming to satellite-based detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Si-wen; Guo, Li-hong; Guo, Ru-hai

2009-07-01

The reconnaissance satellite, communication satellite and navigation satellite used in the military applications have played more and more important role in the advanced technique wars and already become the significant support and aid system for military actions. With the development of all kinds of satellites, anti-satellite laser weapons emerge as the times require. The experiments and analyses of laser disturbing CCD (charge coupled detector) in near ground have been studied by many research groups, but their results are not suitable to the case that using laser disturbs the satellite-based detector. Because the distance between the satellite-based detector and the ground is very large, it is difficult to damage it directly. However the optical receive system of satellite detector has large optical gain, so laser disturbing satellite detector is possible. In order to determine its feasibility, the theoretical analyses and experimental study are carried out in the paper. Firstly, the influence factors of laser disturbing satellite detector are analyzed in detail, which including laser power density on the surface of the detector after long distance transmission, and laser power density threshold for disturbing etc. These factors are not only induced by the satellite orbit, but dependence on the following parameters: laser average power in the ground, laser beam quality, tracing and aiming precision and atmospheric transmission. A calculation model is developed by considering all factors which then the power density entering into the detector can be calculated. Secondly, the laser disturbing experiment is performed by using LD (laser diode) with the wavelength 808 nm disturbing CCD 5 kilometer away, which the disturbing threshold value is obtained as 3.55×10-4mW/cm2 that coincides with other researcher's results. Finally, using the theoretical model, the energy density of laser on the photosensitive surface of MSTI-3 satellite detector is estimated as about 100mW/cm2, which is largely exceed the disturbing threshold and therefore verify the feasibility of using this kind of laser disturbing the satellite-based detector. According to the results. using the similar laser power density absolutely saturate the requirements to laser disturbing satellite-based detector. If considering the peak power of pulsed laser, even decrease laser average power, it is also possible to damage the detector. This result will provide the reliable evidences to evaluate the effect of laser disturbing satellite-based detector.

Legal Implications of Military Uses of Outer Space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Catena, Johanna

2002-01-01

Acquisition of Space Weapons, the Legal, Political and Military Impact for International Peace and At the dawn of a new century an immediate danger is upon us: The weaponization of outer space, including potential cost implications upon the prospect of ushering an era of peace and prosperity. But, can such statements be explained as pure sentimentality for hopes of a new era? Or is the danger misplaced that the threat to peace and security is an ever more ominous? By militarising outer space one could monitor crisis areas that could become a potential threat and this would in turn build confidence and security amongst nations. However the Outer Space Treaty prohibits placing in orbit nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. This does not include other military systems. Many countries feel the prohibition should be extended in the Treaty. Other military systems may involve anti-satellite weapons, (ASATS), emitting or simply placing technologies in space using laser and /or particle beams from space to intercept presently specific military targets such as ballistic missiles and hostile satellites, but in the future this may extend to destroying a target on earth. Military presence in space however, is not founded on weapons alone, but also through military surveillance systems and seen by some countries as an effective measure in verification on arms control. It is also seen as intensifying an arms race. At the forefront of the debate for space weapons is the possibility of countries deploying a National Missile Defence system. How does one reconcile such a system with present treaties? There has always been a direct relationship between weapons and space exploration, particularly if traced through the history of the late nineteenth century to the era of the space race. Konstantin Tsiolkovsky, (1857 - 1935), was one of the founders to astronautics. Robert Goddard, (1882-1945) an Englishman, developed Tsiolkovskys' work further. He built the first liquid-fuelled rocket. Goddard's work coincided with the work of a German scientist Werner Von Braun, (1912-77) who designed the V1 and V2 rocket. The V2 was the first intercontinental ballistic missile. Compared to the V1, the V2 could carry a heavier payload and the range was much longer. Von Braun had originally sketched his ideas to the Germans, that the V2 was an effective design for space travel and it was rejected. After the war the V2 became the foundation to many new technologies and these modifications marked the beginning of the space race. This competition led to space travel, taking men to the moon using the Saturn V rocket, robotic missions to the planets, and into tactical nuclear missiles (Redstone). This also marked the future for such dual-purpose technologies (i.e. military and/or civilian use) and more interestingly it took the design of weapons for space travel to be taken seriously. Arthur C Clarke commented on the possibilities of placing weapons in outer space, `the only defence against the weapons of the future is to prevent them ever being used. The problem is political and not military at all.' Ambassador Peter Jankowitsch, quoting Stockholm International Peace Research Institute in his opening address to COPUOS in Austria 1978, `we must make sure that outer space can be spared the fate of so many human discoveries of previous ages, namely becoming a mere battlefield.' These statements may be analysed by applying the United Nations Charter alongside other international treaties, such as the Outer Space Treaty 1967, the Test Ban Treaty 1963 and the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty in conjunction with the new Agreement signed by Russian and the USA. This may assist to highlight and conclude where problems reside whether political, legal, military, or a combination; and the impact for international peace and security.

Laser induced damage in optical materials: tenth ASTM symposium.

PubMed

Glass, A J; Guenther, A H

1979-07-01

The tenth annual Symposium on Optical Materials for High Power Lasers (Boulder Damage Symposium) was held at the National Bureau of Standards in Boulder, Colorado, 12-14 September 1978. The symposium was held under the auspices of ASTM Committee F-1, Subcommittee on Laser Standards, with the joint sponsorship of NBS, the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency, the Department of Energy, and the Office of Naval Research. About 175 scientists attended, including representatives of the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Japan, West Germany, and the Soviet Union. The symposium was divided into sessions concerning the measurement of absorption characteristics, bulk material properties, mirrors and surfaces, thin film damage, coating materials and design, and breakdown phenomena. As in previous years, the emphasis of the papers presented was directed toward new frontiers and new developments. Particular emphasis was given to materials for use from 10.6 microm to the UV region. Highlights included surface characterization, thin film-substrate boundaries, and advances in fundamental laser-matter threshold interactions and mechanisms. The scaling of damage thresholds with pulse duration, focal area, and wavelength was also discussed. In commemoration of the tenth symposium in this series, a number of comprehensive review papers were presented to assess the state of the art in various facets of laser induced damage in optical materials. Alexander J. Glass of Lawrence Livermore Laboratory and Arthur H. Guenther of the Air Force Weapons Laboratory were co-chairpersons. The eleventh annual symposium is scheduled for 30-31 October 1979 at the National Bureau of Standards, Boulder, Colorado.

Flexible weapons architecture design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pyant, William C., III

Present day air-delivered weapons are of a closed architecture, with little to no ability to tailor the weapon for the individual engagement. The closed architectures require weaponeers to make the target fit the weapon instead of fitting the individual weapons to a target. The concept of a flexible weapons aims to modularize weapons design using an open architecture shell into which different modules are inserted to achieve the desired target fractional damage while reducing cost and civilian casualties. This thesis shows that the architecture design factors of damage mechanism, fusing, weapons weight, guidance, and propulsion are significant in enhancing weapon performance objectives, and would benefit from modularization. Additionally, this thesis constructs an algorithm that can be used to design a weapon set for a particular target class based on these modular components.

Proliferation of nuclear weapons: opportunities for control and abolition.

PubMed

Sidel, Victor W; Levy, Barry S

2007-09-01

Nuclear weapons pose a particularly destructive threat. Prevention of the proliferation and use of nuclear weapons is urgently important to public health. "Horizontal" proliferation refers to nation-states or nonstate entities that do not have, but are acquiring, nuclear weapons or developing the capability and materials for producing them. "Vertical" proliferation refers to nation-states that do possess nuclear weapons and are increasing their stockpiles of these weapons, improving the technical sophistication or reliability of their weapons, or developing new weapons. Because nation-states or other entities that wish to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons need methods for delivering those weapons, proliferation of delivery mechanisms must also be prevented. Controlling proliferation--and ultimately abolishing nuclear weapons--involves national governments, intergovernmental organizations, nongovernmental and professional organizations, and society at large.

Laser bronchoscopy.

PubMed

Duhamel, D R; Harrell, J H

2001-11-01

Because the lung cancer epidemic shows no signs of abating, little doubt exists that the need for interventional bronchoscopists will persist for many years to come. The Nd:YAG laser and the rigid bronchoscope remain crucial weapons in the fight against lung cancer. With more than 4000 published interventions pertaining to it, this combination is ideal for treating central airways obstruction. The safety and efficacy of laser bronchoscopy has been well established, and the reported incidence of complications is impressively low. If complications were to arise, a skilled bronchoscopist can manage them easily by using the beneficial attributes of the rigid bronchoscope. Many complications can be avoided by implementing the established safety procedures and techniques. A solid understanding of laser physics and tissue interactions is a necessity to anyone performing laser surgery. The team approach, relying on communication among the bronchoscopist, anesthesiologist, laser technician, and nurses, leads to a safer and more successful procedure. It is important to remember, however, that this is typically a palliative procedure, and therefore the focus should be on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. Unfortunately, because not every patient is a candidate for laser bronchoscopy, there are specific characteristics of endobronchial lesions that make them more or less amenable to resection. Each year a promising new technology is being developed, such as argon plasma coagulation, cryotherapy, and endobronchial electrosurgery. Although it is unclear what role these technologies will have, prospective controlled studies must be done to help clarify this question. The future may lay in combining these various technologies along with Nd:YAG laser bronchoscopy to maximize the therapeutic, palliative, and possibly even curative effect. As the experience of the medical community with Nd:YAG laser bronchoscopy continues to grow and as more health-care professionals are made aware of its therapeutic capability, fewer patients with cancer will need to suffer and die from the complications of airway obstruction.

A model of early formation of uranium molecular oxides in laser-ablated plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Finko, Mikhail; Curreli, Davide; Azer, Magdi; Weisz, David; Crowhurst, Jonathan; Rose, Timothy; Koroglu, Batikan; Radousky, Harry; Zaug, Joseph; Armstrong, Mike

2017-10-01

An important problem within the field of nuclear forensics is fractionation: the formation of post-detonation nuclear debris whose composition does not reflect that of the source weapon. We are investigating uranium fractionation in rapidly cooling plasma using a combined experimental and modeling approach. In particular, we use laser ablation of uranium metal samples to produce a low-temperature plasma with physical conditions similar to a condensing nuclear fireball. Here we present a first plasma-chemistry model of uranium molecular species formation during the early stage of laser ablated plasma evolution in atmospheric oxygen. The system is simulated using a global kinetic model with rate coefficients calculated according to literature data and the application of reaction rate theory. The model allows for a detailed analysis of the evolution of key uranium molecular species and represents the first step in producing a uranium fireball model that is kinetically validated against spatially and temporally resolved spectroscopy measurements. This project was sponsored by the DoD, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Grant HDTRA1-16- 1-0020. This work was performed in part under the auspices of the U.S. DoE by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52- 07NA27344.

Standoff detection of explosive substances at distances of up to 150 m.

PubMed

Mukherjee, Anadi; Von der Porten, Steven; Patel, C Kumar N

2010-04-10

We report detection and identification of trace quantities of explosives at standoff distances up to 150 m with high sensitivity (signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 70) and high selectivity. The technique involves illuminating the target object with laser radiation at a wavelength that is strongly absorbed by the target. The resulting temperature rise is observed by remotely monitoring the increased blackbody radiation from the sample. An unambiguous determination of the target, TNT, in soil samples collected from an explosives test site in China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station is achieved through the use of a tunable CO(2) laser that scans over the absorption fingerprint of the target explosives. The theoretical analysis supports the observation and indicates that, with optimized detectors and data processing algorithms, the measurement capability can be improved significantly, permitting rapid standoff detection of explosives at distances approaching 1 km. The detection sensitivity varies as R(-2) and, thus, with the availability of high power, room-temperature, tunable mid-wave infrared and long-wave infrared quantum cascade lasers, this technology may play an important role in screening personnel and their belongings at short distances, such as in airports, for detecting and identifying explosives material residue on persons.

Youths carrying a weapon or using a weapon in a fight: what makes the difference?

PubMed

Thurnherr, Judit; Michaud, Pierre-André; Berchtold, André; Akré, Christina; Suris, Joan-Carles

2009-04-01

The objective of this study was to characterize weapon-carrying adolescents and to assess whether weapon carriers differ from weapon users. Data were drawn from a cross-sectional school-based survey of 7548 adolescents aged 16-20 years in Switzerland. Youths carrying a weapon were compared with those who do not. Subsequently, weapon carriers were divided into those who had used it in a fight and those who had not. Individual, family, school and social factors were analyzed using bivariate and stepwise multivariate analysis. For both genders, delinquent behavior and being victim of physical violence were associated with weapon carrying. For males, quarreling while intoxicated, being an apprentice, being sensation seekers, having a tattoo, having a poor relationship with parents and practicing unsafe sex were also related to weapon carrying. Compared with weapon carriers, female weapon users were more likely to be regular smokers. Male weapon users were foreign born, urban and apprentices; had poor school connectedness; practiced unsafe sex and quarreled while intoxicated. Carrying a weapon is a relatively frequent behavior among youths in Switzerland and a sizeable proportion of weapon carriers have used it in a fight. Weapon carrying should be part of the clinical assessment and preventive counseling of adolescents. Preventive programs specific for at-risk youth groups need to be developed.

Youths Carrying a Weapon or Using a Weapon in a Fight: What Makes the Difference?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thurnherr, Judit; Michaud, Pierre-Andre; Berchtold, Andre; Akre, Christina; Suris, Joan-Carles

2009-01-01

The objective of this study was to characterize weapon-carrying adolescents and to assess whether weapon carriers differ from weapon users. Data were drawn from a cross-sectional school-based survey of 7548 adolescents aged 16-20 years in Switzerland. Youths carrying a weapon were compared with those who do not. Subsequently, weapon carriers were…

Sandia National Laboratories: National Security Missions: Nuclear Weapons:

Science.gov Websites

Safety & Security Sandia National Laboratories Exceptional service in the national interest & Figures Programs Nuclear Weapons About Nuclear Weapons Safety & Security Weapons Science & Twitter YouTube Flickr RSS Top Nuclear Weapons About Nuclear Weapons at Sandia Safety & Security

The eyes of LITENING

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moser, Eric K.

2016-05-01

LITENING is an airborne system-of-systems providing long-range imaging, targeting, situational awareness, target tracking, weapon guidance, and damage assessment, incorporating a laser designator and laser range finders, as well as non-thermal and thermal imaging systems, with multi-sensor boresight. Robust operation is at a premium, and subsystems are partitioned to modular, swappable line-replaceable-units (LRUs) and shop-replaceable-units (SRUs). This presentation will explore design concepts for sensing, data storage, and presentation of imagery associated with the LITENING targeting pod. The "eyes" of LITENING are the electro-optic sensors. Since the initial LITENING II introduction to the US market in the late 90s, as the program has evolved and matured, a series of spiral functional improvements and sensor upgrades have been incorporated. These include laser-illuminated imaging, and more recently, color sensing. While aircraft displays are outside of the LITENING system, updates to the available viewing modules have also driven change, and resulted in increasingly effective ways of utilizing the targeting system. One of the latest LITENING spiral upgrades adds a new capability to display and capture visible-band color imagery, using new sensors. This is an augmentation to the system's existing capabilities, which operate over a growing set of visible and invisible colors, infrared bands, and laser line wavelengths. A COTS visible-band camera solution using a CMOS sensor has been adapted to meet the particular needs associated with the airborne targeting use case.

32 CFR 234.10 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 32 National Defense 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Weapons. 234.10 Section 234.10 National Defense... PENTAGON RESERVATION § 234.10 Weapons. (a) Except as otherwise authorized under this section, the following are prohibited: (1) Possessing a weapon. (2) Carrying a weapon. (3) Using a weapon. (b) This section...

32 CFR 234.10 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 32 National Defense 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Weapons. 234.10 Section 234.10 National Defense... PENTAGON RESERVATION § 234.10 Weapons. (a) Except as otherwise authorized under this section, the following are prohibited: (1) Possessing a weapon. (2) Carrying a weapon. (3) Using a weapon. (b) This section...

32 CFR 234.10 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Weapons. 234.10 Section 234.10 National Defense... PENTAGON RESERVATION § 234.10 Weapons. (a) Except as otherwise authorized under this section, the following are prohibited: (1) Possessing a weapon. (2) Carrying a weapon. (3) Using a weapon. (b) This section...

32 CFR 234.10 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 32 National Defense 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Weapons. 234.10 Section 234.10 National Defense... PENTAGON RESERVATION § 234.10 Weapons. (a) Except as otherwise authorized under this section, the following are prohibited: (1) Possessing a weapon. (2) Carrying a weapon. (3) Using a weapon. (b) This section...

32 CFR 234.10 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 32 National Defense 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Weapons. 234.10 Section 234.10 National Defense... PENTAGON RESERVATION § 234.10 Weapons. (a) Except as otherwise authorized under this section, the following are prohibited: (1) Possessing a weapon. (2) Carrying a weapon. (3) Using a weapon. (b) This section...

S&TR Preview: Smashing Materials to Reveal Unusual Behavior

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hunsberger, Maren; Akin, Minta; Chau, Ricky

2016-01-13

Squeeze a material hard enough, and its structure and properties will change, sometimes dramatically so. With enough heat and pressure, scientists can turn pencil lead (graphite), one of Earth’s softest materials, into diamond, one of its hardest. Apply even more pressure—such as might be found in explosions, detonating nuclear weapons, laser fusion experiments, meteorite impacts, or the hearts of stars and planets—and materials can take stranger forms. Deep in Jupiter’s core, for instance, where pressures likely reach 50 to 100 million times that of Earth’s atmosphere, hydrogen is predicted to be a metallic liquid rather than the familiar transparent gas.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mark, H.

A development history and development status evaluation is presented for weapons technologies capable of serving as defenses against nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles. The decisive turning-point in this history was the March 23, 1983 announcement by President Reagan of the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI). Due to President Reagan's emphasis on population protection, 'global' defense systems have tended to dominate SDI design efforts. The most important SDI technical achievements to date encompass (1) miniature homig devices, (2) the upgrade of the Patriot SAM for missile-interception capabilities, (3) light exoatmospheric projectiles, such as 'Brilliant Pebbles', (4) successful laser-communications experiments, and (5) the warhead/decoy-discriminating Firepondmore » lidar system. 7 refs.« less

Helicopters on the asymmetric battlefield: challenges for photonics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heikell, Johnny

2007-10-01

The problem set of battlefield helicopters and related photonics in asymmetric scenarios is addressed with emphasis on survivability and electronic warfare. The problem set is identified starting from an operational perspective, asking how different the asymmetric battlefield is from the traditional Cold War scenario, and by identifying relevant characteristics of battlefield helicopters. Based on this information requirements for photonics are deduced. It is concluded that the shift to asymmetric conflicts brings evolutionary-but not revolutionary-challenges for photonics, mostly so for the laser community. Main causes for the evolutionary drive are shortened engagement ranges, increased threat from ballistic and CBRE weapons, stringent ROEs, and assassination operations.

Efficacy of predictive wavefront control for compensating aero-optical aberrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goorskey, David J.; Schmidt, Jason; Whiteley, Matthew R.

2013-07-01

Imaging and laser beam propagation from airborne platforms are degraded by dynamic aberrations due to air flow around the aircraft, aero-mechanical distortions and jitter, and free atmospheric turbulence. For certain applications, like dim-object imaging, free-space optical communications, and laser weapons, adaptive optics (AO) is necessary to compensate for the aberrations in real time. Aero-optical flow is a particularly interesting source of aberrations whose flowing structures can be exploited by adaptive and predictive AO controllers, thereby realizing significant performance gains. We analyze dynamic aero-optical wavefronts to determine the pointing angles at which predictive wavefront control is more effective than conventional, fixed-gain, linear-filter control. It was found that properties of the spatial decompositions and temporal statistics of the wavefronts are directly traceable to specific features in the air flow. Furthermore, the aero-optical wavefront aberrations at the side- and aft-looking angles were the most severe, but they also benefited the most from predictive AO.

Research on droplet size measurement of impulse antiriots water cannon based on sheet laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fa-dong, Zhao; Hong-wei, Zhuang; Ren-jun, Zhan

2014-04-01

As a new-style counter-personnel non-lethal weapon, it is the non-steady characteristic and large water mist field that increase the difficulty of measuring the droplet size distribution of impulse anti-riots water cannon which is the most important index to examine its tactical and technology performance. A method based on the technologies of particle scattering, sheet laser imaging and high speed handling was proposed and an universal droplet size measuring algorithm was designed and verified. According to this method, the droplet size distribution was measured. The measuring results of the size distribution under the same position with different timescale, the same axial distance with different radial distance, the same radial distance with different axial distance were analyzed qualitatively and some rational cause was presented. The droplet size measuring method proposed in this article provides a scientific and effective experiment method to ascertain the technical and tactical performance and optimize the relative system performance.

Security training with interactive laser-video-disk technology

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wilson, D.

1988-01-01

DOE, through its contractor EG and G Energy Measurements, Inc., has developed a state-of-the-art interactive-video system for use at the Department of Energy's Central Training Academy. Called the Security Training and Evaluation Shooting System (STRESS), the computer-driven decision shooting system employs the latest is laservideo-disk technology. STRESS is designed to provide realistic and stressful training for security inspectors employed by the DOE and its contractors. The system uses wide-screen video projection, sophisticated scenario-branching technology, and customized video scenarios especially designed for the DOE. Firing a weapon that has been modified to shoot ''laser bullets,'' and wearing a special vest thatmore » detects ''hits'': the security inspector encounters adversaries on the wide screen who can shoot or be shot by the inspector in scenarios that demand fast decisions. Based on those decisions, the computer provides instantaneous branching to different scenes, giving the inspector confrontational training with the realism and variability of real life.« less

Laser countermeasures for commercial airlines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keirstead, Burt

2005-05-01

Since the attempted shoot down of an Israeli airliner departing from Mombasa, Kenya in November of 2002, there has been heightened concern that Al Qaeda, or other terrorist factions, will use shoulder-fired heat seeking missiles as part of their tactics. These weapons, known more formally as man-portable air defense systems, or MANPADS, have been widely proliferated, are easy to conceal and deploy, and can be purchased on the black market for as little as $10,000. Recognizing that MANPADS pose a potential threat to commercial airplanes throughout the world, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is executing a system design and development (SDD) program to evaluate the viability of missile countermeasures that would be installed on commercial airplanes. This paper provides an overview of the MANPADS threat, a discussion of associated countermeasure requirements for systems installed on commercial airplanes, and a description of a laser countermeasure system that is being prototyped and demonstrated as part of the DHS Counter-MANPADS program.

Holographic gunsights for small arms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tai, Anthony M.; Sieczka, Eric J.; Radler, Richard; Upatnieks, Juris

1996-05-01

Holographic gunsights were first demonstrated in the mid 1970s by researchers at the Environmental Research Institute of Michigan (ERIM) under contracts with the Air Force and the Army. The sights utilized He-Ne gas lasers and were designed for use with large weapons systems. With the advent of low cost visible laser diode, ERIM formed a new company, EOTech, to develop, manufacture and market a holographic gun sight for small arms. A hologram is used to reconstruct the image of a reticle pattern that appears at the target plane. Unlike red-dot sights, virtually any reticle pattern, 2D or 3D, can be formed. The design challenges include an opto-mechanical package that is compact, light weight and low cost which can withstand recoils up to 4,000 Gs and provide fine elevation/windage pointing adjustments, and optics that are aberration-free and stable over a wide temperature range. Manufacturing challenges include the mass production of high quality holographic optics at low cost and the precision alignment of the very low f/number optics.

3 CFR - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... to the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction Presidential Documents Other Presidential... Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction On November 14, 1994, by Executive Order 12938, the President... chemical weapons (weapons of mass destruction) and the means of delivering such weapons. On July 28, 1998...

[Chemical weapons and chemical terrorism].

PubMed

Nakamura, Katsumi

2005-10-01

Chemical Weapons are kind of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). They were used large quantities in WWI. Historically, large quantities usage like WWI was not recorded, but small usage has appeared now and then. Chemical weapons are so called "Nuclear weapon for poor countrys" because it's very easy to produce/possession being possible. They are categorized (1) Nerve Agents, (2) Blister Agents, (3) Cyanide (blood) Agents, (4) Pulmonary Agents, (5) Incapacitating Agents (6) Tear Agents from the viewpoint of human body interaction. In 1997 the Chemical Weapons Convention has taken effect. It prohibits chemical weapons development/production, and Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) verification regime contributes to the chemical weapons disposal. But possibility of possession/use of weapons of mass destruction by terrorist group represented in one by Matsumoto and Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack, So new chemical terrorism countermeasures are necessary.

Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons: Opportunities for Control and Abolition

PubMed Central

Sidel, Victor W.; Levy, Barry S.

2007-01-01

Nuclear weapons pose a particularly destructive threat. Prevention of the proliferation and use of nuclear weapons is urgently important to public health. “Horizontal” proliferation refers to nation-states or nonstate entities that do not have, but are acquiring, nuclear weapons or developing the capability and materials for producing them. “Vertical” proliferation refers to nation-states that do possess nuclear weapons and are increasing their stockpiles of these weapons, improving the technical sophistication or reliability of their weapons, or developing new weapons. Because nation-states or other entities that wish to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons need methods for delivering those weapons, proliferation of delivery mechanisms must also be prevented. Controlling proliferation—and ultimately abolishing nuclear weapons—involves national governments, intergovernmental organizations, nongovernmental and professional organizations, and society at large. PMID:17666690

Bugs and gas: Agreements banning chemical and biological weapons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mikulak, Robert P.

2017-11-01

The use of chemical or biological weapons, whether by a State or terrorists, continues to be a serious security concern. Both types of weapons are prohibited by multilateral treaties that have very broad membership, but both the Biological Weapons Convention and the Chemical Weapons Convention are facing major challenges. In particular, the continued use of chemical weapons in the Syrian civil war by government forces risks eroding the norm against the use of such weapons. This paper briefly explore the recent history of efforts to constrain chemical and biological weapons and outlines challenges for the future.

Perceived popularity of adolescents who use weapons in violence and adolescents who only carry weapons.

PubMed

Wallace, Lacey N

2017-01-01

Prior research has found that persistently delinquent youth or more violent youth were less popular than their less delinquent peers (Young, 2013). However, recent research has also found that weapon carrying is associated with being more popular in adolescence (Dijkstra et al., 2010). The present paper examines the perceived popularity of adolescents who carry weapons in comparison to those who both carry and use weapons in acts of violence or threatened violence. Data consist of two waves from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health. Analyses use OLS regression with lagged predictors. This paper found no differences in number of friends between weapon carriers and weapon users. However, among both male and female gang members, those who did not use or carry weapons (abstainers) named significantly fewer friends than weapon users. Among females, weapon abstainers both named and were named by significantly more people than weapon users. These differences were not observed for males. Implications of these results and directions for future research are discussed.

Imaging Fourier transform spectroscopy of the boundary layer plume from laser irradiated polymers and carbon materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acosta, Roberto I.

The high-energy laser (HEL) lethality community needs for enhanced laser weapons systems requires a better understanding of a wide variety of emerging threats. In order to reduce the dimensionality of laser-materials interaction it is necessary to develop novel predictive capabilities of these events. The objective is to better understand the fundamentals of laser lethality testing by developing empirical models from hyperspectral imagery, enabling a robust library of experiments for vulnerability assessments. Emissive plumes from laser irradiated fiberglass reinforced polymers (FRP), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and porous graphite targets were investigated primarily using a mid-wave infrared (MWIR) imaging Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS). Polymer and graphite targets were irradiated with a continuous wave (cw) fiber lasers. Data was acquired with a spectral resolution of 2 cm-1 and spatial resolution as high as 0.52 mm2 per pixel. Strong emission from H2O, CO, CO2 and hydrocarbons were observed in the MWIR between 1900-4000 cm-1. A single-layer radiative transfer model was developed to estimate spatial maps of temperature and column densities of CO and CO2 from the hyperspectral imagery of the boundary layer plume. The spectral model was used to compute the absorption cross sections of CO and CO2, using spectral line parameters from the high temperature extension of the HITRAN. Also, spatial maps of gas-phase temperature and methyl methacrylate (MMA) concentration were developed from laser irradiated carbon black-pigmented PMMA at irradiances of 4-22 W/cm2. Global kinetics interplay between heterogeneous and homogeneous combustion kinetics are shown from experimental observations at high spatial resolutions. Overall the boundary layer profile at steady-state is consistent with CO being mainly produced at the surface by heterogeneous reactions followed by a rapid homogeneous combustion in the boundary layer towards buoyancy.

36 CFR 2.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Weapons, traps and nets. 2.4... PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION § 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in... prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap or net (iii) Using a weapon...

36 CFR 2.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Weapons, traps and nets. 2.4... PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION § 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in... prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap or net (iii) Using a weapon...

36 CFR 2.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Weapons, traps and nets. 2.4... PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION § 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in... prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap or net (iii) Using a weapon...

36 CFR 2.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Weapons, traps and nets. 2.4... PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION § 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in... prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap or net (iii) Using a weapon...

36 CFR 2.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Weapons, traps and nets. 2.4... PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION § 2.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in... prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap or net (iii) Using a weapon...

The weapons effect.

PubMed

Benjamin, Arlin James; Bushman, Brad J

2018-02-01

In some societies, weapons are plentiful and highly visible. This review examines recent trends in research on the weapons effect, which is the finding that the mere presence of weapons can prime people to behave aggressively. The General Aggression Model provides a theoretical framework to explain why the weapons effect occurs. This model postulates that exposure to weapons increases aggressive thoughts and hostile appraisals, thus explaining why weapons facilitate aggressive behavior. Data from meta-analytic reviews are consistent with the General Aggression Model. These findings have important practical as well as theoretical implications. They suggest that the link between weapons and aggression is very strong in semantic memory, and that merely seeing a weapon can make people more aggressive. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Correlates of weapon carrying in school among adolescents in three countries.

PubMed

Stickley, Andrew; Koyanagi, Ai; Koposov, Roman; Blatný, Marek; Hrdlička, Michal; Schwab-Stone, Mary; Ruchkin, Vladislav

2015-01-01

To determine the factors associated with weapon carrying in school among Czech, Russian, and US adolescents. Logistic regression was used to analyze data drawn from the Social and Health Assessment (SAHA). Violent behavior (perpetration / victimization) was linked to adolescent weapon carrying in all countries. Substance use was associated with weapon carrying among boys in all countries. Greater parental warmth reduced the odds for weapon carrying among Czech and Russian adolescents. Associating with delinquent peers was important for weapon carrying only among US adolescents. Factors associated with weapon carrying in school vary among countries although violent behavior and substance use may be associated with weapon carrying across countries.

Analyses of battle casualties by weapon type aboard U.S. Navy warships.

PubMed

Blood, C G

1992-03-01

The number of casualties was determined for 513 incidents involving U.S. Navy warships sunk or damaged during World War II. Ship type and weapon were significant factors in determining the numbers of wounded and killed. Multiple weapon attacks and kamikazes yielded more wounded in action than other weapon types. Multiple weapons and torpedos resulted in a higher incidence of killed in action than other weapons. Penetrating wounds and burns were the most prominent injury types. Kamikaze attacks yielded significantly more burns than incidents involving bombs, gunfire, torpedos, mines, and multiple weapons. Mine explosions were responsible for more strains, sprains, and dislocations than the other weapon types.

The Gulf War's impact on ballistic missile defense systems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Likourezos, G.

1993-01-01

During Desert Storm the United States and its allies had an overwhelming advantage over the Iraqi armed forces. Nonetheless, the Iraqis managed to strike Israel and Saudi Arabia with Scud missiles. Because of the changing political climate and the expanding transfer of technology among nations, there is great concern by the US Government about missile proliferation and the ability of any country to obtain weapons of mass destruction. The US Government tried to downplay this concern for many years until the recent events in the Middle East affirmed its seriousness. The truth is that every year countries once thought tomore » pose no international threat are acquiring biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons. Moreover, state-sponsored terrorist organizations could conceivably acquire these weapons in the future. In response to these concerns and in light of the lessons learned from the Gulf War, President George Bush in January 1991 redirected the SDI Program to concentrate on providing protection from limited ballistic missile strikes, rather than from an all-out nuclear missile attack by the Soviet Union. The Patriot air defense system, after knocking out Iraqi Scuds in the Gulf War with a near perfect record, appears for now to be the working model for the development of advanced ballistic missile defense systems - direct-kill missiles and projectiles instead of laser and particle beams. Even though the Patriot's use in Desert Storm has been argued by some to have been militarily insignificant, it has managed to change the viewpoint of many political and scientific leaders into believing that ballistic missile defense systems are needed to defend peaceful population centers and military installations from missile strikes like the ones on Israel and Saudi Arabia. 18 refs.« less

Testing three explanations of the emergence of weapon carrying in peer context: the roles of aggression, victimization, and the social network.

PubMed

Dijkstra, Jan Kornelis; Gest, Scott D; Lindenberg, Siegwart; Veenstra, René; Cillessen, Antonius H N

2012-04-01

To examine the relative contribution of weapon carrying of peers, aggression, and victimization to weapon carrying of male and female adolescents over time. Data were derived from a population-based sample of male (N = 224) and female (N = 244) adolescents followed from grade 10 (M age = 15.5) to grade 11 (M age = 16.5). Peer networks were derived from best friend nominations. Self-reports were used to assess weapon carrying. Aggression and victimization were assessed using both self- and peer-reports. Use of dynamic social network modeling (SIENA) allowed prediction of weapon carrying in grade 11 as a function of weapon carrying of befriended peers, aggression, and victimization in grade 10, while selection processes and structural network effects (reciprocity and transitivity) were controlled for. Peer influence processes accounted for changes in weapon carrying over time. Self-reported victimization decreased weapon carrying 1 year later. Peer-reported victimization increased the likelihood of weapon carrying, particularly for highly aggressive adolescents. Boys were more likely to carry weapons than girls, but the processes associated with weapon carrying did not differ for boys and girls. These findings revealed that, in this population-based sample, weapon carrying of best friends, as well as aggression, contributed to the proliferation of weapons in friendship networks, suggesting processes of peer contagion as well as individual vulnerability to weapon carrying. Copyright © 2012 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Weapon carrying and psychopathic-like features in a population-based sample of Finnish adolescents.

PubMed

Saukkonen, Suvi; Laajasalo, Taina; Jokela, Markus; Kivivuori, Janne; Salmi, Venla; Aronen, Eeva T

2016-02-01

We investigated the prevalence of juvenile weapon carrying and psychosocial and personality-related risk factors for carrying different types of weapons in a nationally representative, population-based sample of Finnish adolescents. Specifically, we aimed to investigate psychopathic-like personality features as a risk factor for weapon carrying. The participants were 15-16-year-old adolescents from the Finnish self-report delinquency study (n = 4855). Four different groups were formed based on self-reported weapon carrying: no weapon carrying, carrying knife, gun or other weapon. The associations between psychosocial factors, psychopathic-like features and weapon carrying were examined with multinomial logistic regression analysis. 9% of the participants had carried a weapon in the past 12 months. Adolescents with a history of delinquency, victimization and antisocial friends were more likely to carry weapons in general; however, delinquency and victimization were most strongly related to gun carrying, while perceived peer delinquency (antisocial friends) was most strongly related to carrying a knife. Better academic performance was associated with a reduced likelihood of carrying a gun and knife, while feeling secure correlated with a reduced likelihood of gun carrying only. Psychopathic-like features were related to a higher likelihood of weapon carrying, even after adjusting for other risk factors. The findings of the study suggest that adolescents carrying a weapon have a large cluster of problems in their lives, which may vary based on the type of weapon carried. Furthermore, psychopathic-like features strongly relate to a higher risk of carrying a weapon.

Methodology for comparing worldwide performance of diverse weight-constrained high energy laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartell, Richard J.; Perram, Glen P.; Fiorino, Steven T.; Long, Scott N.; Houle, Marken J.; Rice, Christopher A.; Manning, Zachary P.; Bunch, Dustin W.; Krizo, Matthew J.; Gravley, Liesebet E.

2005-06-01

The Air Force Institute of Technology's Center for Directed Energy has developed a software model, the High Energy Laser End-to-End Operational Simulation (HELEEOS), under the sponsorship of the High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office (JTO), to facilitate worldwide comparisons across a broad range of expected engagement scenarios of expected performance of a diverse range of weight-constrained high energy laser system types. HELEEOS has been designed to meet JTO's goals of supporting a broad range of analyses applicable to the operational requirements of all the military services, constraining weapon effectiveness through accurate engineering performance assessments allowing its use as an investment strategy tool, and the establishment of trust among military leaders. HELEEOS is anchored to respected wave optics codes and all significant degradation effects, including thermal blooming and optical turbulence, are represented in the model. The model features operationally oriented performance metrics, e.g. dwell time required to achieve a prescribed probability of kill and effective range. Key features of HELEEOS include estimation of the level of uncertainty in the calculated Pk and generation of interactive nomographs to allow the user to further explore a desired parameter space. Worldwide analyses are enabled at five wavelengths via recently available databases capturing climatological, seasonal, diurnal, and geographical spatial-temporal variability in atmospheric parameters including molecular and aerosol absorption and scattering profiles and optical turbulence strength. Examples are provided of the impact of uncertainty in weight-power relationships, coupled with operating condition variability, on results of performance comparisons between chemical and solid state lasers.

Cost of space-based laser ballistic missile defense.

PubMed

Field, G; Spergel, D

1986-03-21

Orbiting platforms carrying infrared lasers have been proposed as weapons forming the first tier of a ballistic missile defense system under the President's Strategic Defense Initiative. As each laser platform can destroy a limited number of missiles, one of several methods of countering such a system is to increase the number of offensive missiles. Hence it is important to know whether the cost-exchange ratio, defined as the ratio of the cost to the defense of destroying a missile to the cost to the offense of deploying an additional missile, is greater or less than 1. Although the technology to be used in a ballistic missile defense system is still extremely uncertain, it is useful to examine methods for calculating the cost-exchange ratio. As an example, the cost of an orbiting infrared laser ballistic missile defense system employed against intercontinental ballistic missiles launched simultaneously from a small area is compared to the cost of additional offensive missiles. If one adopts lower limits to the costs for the defense and upper limits to the costs for the offense, the cost-exchange ratio comes out substantially greater than 1. If these estimates are confirmed, such a ballistic missile defense system would be unable to maintain its effectiveness at less cost than it would take to proliferate the ballistic missiles necessary to overcome it and would therefore not satisfy the President's requirements for an effective strategic defense. Although the method is illustrated by applying it to a space-based infrared laser system, it should be straightforward to apply it to other proposed systems.

Cost of space-based laser ballistic missile defense

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Field, G.; Spergel, D.

1986-03-21

Orbiting platforms carrying infrared lasers have been proposed as weapons forming the first tier of a ballistic missile defense system under the President's Strategic Defense Initiative. As each laser platform can destroy a limited number of missiles, one of several methods of countering such a system is to increase the number of offensive missiles. Hence it is important to know whether the cost-exchange ratio, defined as the ratio of the cost to the defense of destroying a missile to the cost to the offense of deploying an additional missile, is greater or less than 1. Although the technology to bemore » used in a ballistic missile defense system is still extremely uncertain, it is useful to examine methods for calculating the cost-exchange ration. As an example, the cost of an orbiting infrared laser ballistic missile defense system employed against intercontinental ballistic missiles launched simultaneously from a small area is compared to the cost of additional offensive missiles. If one adopts lower limits to the costs for the defense and upper limits to the costs for the offense, the cost-exchange ratio comes out substantially greater than 1. If these estimates are confirmed, such a ballistic missile defense system would be unable to maintain its effectiveness at less cost than it would take to proliferate the ballistic missiles necessary to overcome it and would therefore not satisfy the President's requirements for an effective strategic defense. Although the method is illustrated by applying it to a space-based infrared laser system, it should be straightforward to apply it to other proposed systems. 28 references, 2 tables.« less

Electron density measurements for plasma adaptive optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neiswander, Brian W.

Over the past 40 years, there has been growing interest in both laser communications and directed energy weapons that operate from moving aircraft. As a laser beam propagates from an aircraft in flight, it passes through boundary layers, turbulence, and shear layers in the near-region of the aircraft. These fluid instabilities cause strong density gradients which adversely affect the transmission of laser energy to a target. Adaptive optics provides corrective measures for this problem but current technology cannot respond quickly enough to be useful for high speed flight conditions. This research investigated the use of plasma as a medium for adaptive optics for aero-optics applications. When a laser beam passes through plasma, its phase is shifted proportionally to the electron density and gas heating within the plasma. As a result, plasma can be utilized as a dynamically controllable optical medium. Experiments were carried out using a cylindrical dielectric barrier discharge plasma chamber which generated a sub-atmospheric pressure, low-temperature plasma. An electrostatic model of this design was developed and revealed an important design constraint relating to the geometry of the chamber. Optical diagnostic techniques were used to characterize the plasma discharge. Single-wavelength interferometric experiments were performed and demonstrated up to 1.5 microns of optical path difference (OPD) in a 633 nm laser beam. Dual-wavelength interferometry was used to obtain time-resolved profiles of the plasma electron density and gas heating inside the plasma chamber. Furthermore, a new multi-wavelength infrared diagnostic technique was developed and proof-of-concept simulations were conducted to demonstrate the system's capabilities.

Perceived popularity of adolescents who use weapons in violence and adolescents who only carry weapons

PubMed Central

Wallace, Lacey N.

2017-01-01

Prior research has found that persistently delinquent youth or more violent youth were less popular than their less delinquent peers (Young, 2013). However, recent research has also found that weapon carrying is associated with being more popular in adolescence (Dijkstra et al., 2010). The present paper examines the perceived popularity of adolescents who carry weapons in comparison to those who both carry and use weapons in acts of violence or threatened violence. Data consist of two waves from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health. Analyses use OLS regression with lagged predictors. This paper found no differences in number of friends between weapon carriers and weapon users. However, among both male and female gang members, those who did not use or carry weapons (abstainers) named significantly fewer friends than weapon users. Among females, weapon abstainers both named and were named by significantly more people than weapon users. These differences were not observed for males. Implications of these results and directions for future research are discussed. PMID:29104446

Air gun wounding and current UK laws controlling air weapons.

PubMed

Bruce-Chwatt, Robert Michael

2010-04-01

Air weapons whether rifles or pistols are, potentially, lethal weapons. The UK legislation is complex and yet little known to the public. Hunting with air weapons and the laws controlling those animals that are permitted to be shot with air weapons is even more labyrinthine due to the legal power limitations on the possession of air weapons. Still relatively freely available by mail order or on the Internet, an increasing number of deaths have been reported from the misuse of air weapons or accidental discharges. Ammunition for air weapons has become increasingly sophisticated, effective and therefore increasingly dangerous if misused, though freely available being a mere projectile without a concomitant cartridge containing a propellant and an initiator.

Effects of Weapons on Aggressive Thoughts, Angry Feelings, Hostile Appraisals, and Aggressive Behavior: A Meta-Analytic Review of the Weapons Effect Literature.

PubMed

Benjamin, Arlin J; Kepes, Sven; Bushman, Brad J

2017-09-01

Guns are associated with aggression. A landmark 1967 study showed that simply seeing a gun can increase aggression-called the "weapons effect." This meta-analysis integrates the findings of weapons effect studies conducted from 1967 to 2017. It includes 162 effect-size estimates from 78 independent studies involving 7,668 participants. The theoretical framework used to explain the weapons effect was the General Aggression Model (GAM), which proposes three routes to aggression-cognitive, affective, and arousal. The GAM also proposes that hostile appraisals can facilitate aggression. As predicted by the GAM, the mere presence of weapons increased aggressive thoughts, hostile appraisals, and aggression, suggesting a cognitive route from weapons to aggression. Weapons did not significantly increase angry feelings. Only one study tested the effects of weapons on arousal. These findings also contribute to the debate about social priming by showing that incidental exposure to a stimulus (weapon) can affect subsequent related behavior (aggression).

32 CFR 552.104 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552... RESERVATIONS AND NATIONAL CEMETERIES REGULATIONS AFFECTING MILITARY RESERVATIONS Firearms and Weapons § 552.104 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives or other devices defined in...

32 CFR 552.104 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552... RESERVATIONS AND NATIONAL CEMETERIES REGULATIONS AFFECTING MILITARY RESERVATIONS Firearms and Weapons § 552.104 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives or other devices defined in...

32 CFR 552.104 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552... RESERVATIONS AND NATIONAL CEMETERIES REGULATIONS AFFECTING MILITARY RESERVATIONS Firearms and Weapons § 552.104 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives or other devices defined in...

32 CFR 552.104 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2012-07-01 2009-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552... RESERVATIONS AND NATIONAL CEMETERIES REGULATIONS AFFECTING MILITARY RESERVATIONS Firearms and Weapons § 552.104 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives or other devices defined in...

32 CFR 552.104 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2011-07-01 2009-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552... RESERVATIONS AND NATIONAL CEMETERIES REGULATIONS AFFECTING MILITARY RESERVATIONS Firearms and Weapons § 552.104 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives or other devices defined in...

77 FR 59891 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Chemical Weapons Convention Declaration and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-01

... Request; Chemical Weapons Convention Declaration and Report Handbook and Forms AGENCY: Bureau of Industry.... Abstract The Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act of 1998 and Commerce Chemical Weapons... Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), an international arms control treaty. II. Method of Collection Submitted...

14 CFR 1204.1005 - Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials. 1204.1005 Section 1204.1005 Aeronautics and Space... Weapons or Dangerous Materials § 1204.1005 Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives... or causing to be introduced, or using firearms or other dangerous weapons, explosives or other...

14 CFR 1204.1005 - Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials. 1204.1005 Section 1204.1005 Aeronautics and Space... Weapons or Dangerous Materials § 1204.1005 Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives... or causing to be introduced, or using firearms or other dangerous weapons, explosives or other...

3 CFR - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... to Weapons of Mass Destruction Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Notice of November 9, 2011 Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction On... United States posed by the proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of mass...

14 CFR 1204.1005 - Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials. 1204.1005 Section 1204.1005 Aeronautics and Space... Weapons or Dangerous Materials § 1204.1005 Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives... or causing to be introduced, or using firearms or other dangerous weapons, explosives or other...

32 CFR 552.130 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2011-07-01 2009-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552..., Ammunition and Other Dangerous Weapons on Fort Gordon § 552.130 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives, or other devices defined in this subpart, that are confiscated...

3 CFR - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... to Weapons of Mass Destruction Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Notice of November 1, 2012 Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction On... United States posed by the proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of mass...

48 CFR 217.173 - Multiyear contracts for weapon systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... weapon systems. 217.173 Section 217.173 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION... Mulityear Contracting 217.173 Multiyear contracts for weapon systems. As authorized by 10 U.S.C. 2306b(h... contract for— (a) A weapon system and associated items, services, and logistics support for a weapon system...

32 CFR 552.130 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552..., Ammunition and Other Dangerous Weapons on Fort Gordon § 552.130 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives, or other devices defined in this subpart, that are confiscated...

32 CFR 552.130 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552..., Ammunition and Other Dangerous Weapons on Fort Gordon § 552.130 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives, or other devices defined in this subpart, that are confiscated...

14 CFR 1204.1005 - Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials. 1204.1005 Section 1204.1005 Aeronautics and Space... Weapons or Dangerous Materials § 1204.1005 Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives... or causing to be introduced, or using firearms or other dangerous weapons, explosives or other...

32 CFR 552.130 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2012-07-01 2009-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552..., Ammunition and Other Dangerous Weapons on Fort Gordon § 552.130 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives, or other devices defined in this subpart, that are confiscated...

32 CFR 552.130 - Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. 552..., Ammunition and Other Dangerous Weapons on Fort Gordon § 552.130 Disposition of confiscated/seized weapons. All weapons, ammunition, explosives, or other devices defined in this subpart, that are confiscated...

Nuclear Weapons: Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-07-12

done. Critics raised concerns about the implications of these policies for testing and new weapons. At present, Congress addresses nuclear weapon...future, but there are no plans to do so.’”7 Critics expressed concern about the implications of these policies for testing and new weapons. A statement by...opportunity to design and build new nuclear weapons, and abandon a ten-year-old moratorium on nuclear weapons testing.”8 Another critic felt that

Nuclear weapons modernizations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kristensen, Hans M.

2014-05-01

This article reviews the nuclear weapons modernization programs underway in the world's nine nuclear weapons states. It concludes that despite significant reductions in overall weapons inventories since the end of the Cold War, the pace of reductions is slowing - four of the nuclear weapons states are even increasing their arsenals, and all the nuclear weapons states are busy modernizing their remaining arsenals in what appears to be a dynamic and counterproductive nuclear competition. The author questions whether perpetual modernization combined with no specific plan for the elimination of nuclear weapons is consistent with the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and concludes that new limits on nuclear modernizations are needed.

Laser-based detection of chemical contraband

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clemmer, Robert G.; Kelly, James F.; Martin, Steven W.; Mong, Gary M.; Sharpe, Steven W.

1997-02-01

The goal of our work is tow fold; 1) develop a portable and rapid laser based air sampler for detection of specific chemical contraband and 2) compile a spectral data base in both the near- and mid-IR of sufficiently high quality to be useful for gas phase spectroscopic identification of chemical contraband. During the synthesis or 'cooking' of many illicit chemical substances, relatively high concentrations of volatile solvents, chemical precursors and byproducts are unavoidably released to the atmosphere. In some instances, the final product may have sufficient vapor pressure to be detectable in the surrounding air. The detection of a single high-value effluent or the simultaneous detection of two or more low-value effluents can be used as reliable indicators of a nearby clandestine cooking operation. The designation of high- versus low-value effluent reflects both the commercial availability and legitimate usage of a specific chemical. This paper will describe PNNL's progress and efforts towards the development of a portable laser based air sampling system for the detection of clandestine manufacturing of methamphetamine. Although our current efforts ar focused on methamphetamine, we see no fundamental limitations on detection of other forms of chemical contraband manufacturing. This also includes the synthesis of certain classes of chemical weapons that have recently been deployed by terrorist groups.

A stereoscopic imaging system for laser back scatter based trajectory measurement in ballistics: part 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chalupka, Uwe; Rothe, Hendrik

2012-03-01

The progress on a laser- and stereo-camera-based trajectory measurement system that we already proposed and described in recent publications is given. The system design was extended from one to two more powerful, DSP-controllable LASER systems. Experimental results of the extended system using different projectile-/weapon combinations will be shown and discussed. Automatic processing of acquired images using common 3DIP techniques was realized. Processing steps to extract trajectory segments from images as representative for the current application will be presented. Used algorithms for backward-calculation of the projectile trajectory will be shown. Verification of produced results is done against simulated trajectories, once in terms of detection robustness and once in terms of detection accuracy. Fields of use for the current system are within the ballistic domain. The first purpose is for trajectory measurement of small and middle caliber projectiles on a shooting range. Extension to big caliber projectiles as well as an application for sniper detection is imaginable, but would require further work. Beside classical RADAR, acoustic and optical projectile detection methods, the current system represents a further projectile location method under the new class of electro-optical methods that have been evolved in recent decades and that uses 3D imaging acquisition and processing techniques.

High-level PC-based laser system modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, Michael S.

1991-05-01

Since the inception of the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) there have been a multitude of comparison studies done in an attempt to evaluate the effectiveness and relative sizes of complementary, and sometimes competitive, laser weapon systems. It became more and more apparent that what the systems analyst needed was not only a fast, but a cost effective way to perform high-level trade studies. In the present investigation, a general procedure is presented for the development of PC-based algorithmic systems models for laser systems. This procedure points out all of the major issues that should be addressed in the design and development of such a model. Issues addressed include defining the problem to be modeled, defining a strategy for development, and finally, effective use of the model once developed. Being a general procedure, it will allow a systems analyst to develop a model to meet specific needs. To illustrate this method of model development, a description of the Strategic Defense Simulation - Design To (SDS-DT) model developed and used by Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) is presented. SDS-DT is a menu-driven, fast executing, PC-based program that can be used to either calculate performance, weight, volume, and cost values for a particular design or, alternatively, to run parametrics on particular system parameters to perhaps optimize a design.

15 CFR 742.18 - Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or Convention).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or... REGULATIONS CONTROL POLICY-CCL BASED CONTROLS § 742.18 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or Convention). States... Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction, also known as the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC...

36 CFR 1002.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Weapons, traps and nets. 1002... AND RECREATION § 1002.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the following are prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net. (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap or...

3 CFR - Continuation of Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 3 The President 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Continuation of Emergency With Respect to Weapons of... Continuation of Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction On November 14, 1994, by Executive Order... of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of mass destruction) and the means of...

32 CFR 552.122 - Personnel not authorized to possess or retain personal weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... personal weapons. 552.122 Section 552.122 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) DEPARTMENT OF... authorized to possess or retain personal weapons. (a) Possession, retention or storage of personal weapons or... enforcement officer authorized to carry the weapon under state or federal law, while on Fort Lewis or a sub...

32 CFR 552.124 - Transportation of privately owned weapons and ammunition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2011-07-01 2009-07-01 true Transportation of privately owned weapons and... owned weapons and ammunition. (a) Privately owned firearms and ammunition will be transported in the following manner: (1) Weapons, other than weapons being transported into Fort Lewis for the first time, may...

32 CFR 552.124 - Transportation of privately owned weapons and ammunition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2012-07-01 2009-07-01 true Transportation of privately owned weapons and... owned weapons and ammunition. (a) Privately owned firearms and ammunition will be transported in the following manner: (1) Weapons, other than weapons being transported into Fort Lewis for the first time, may...

32 CFR 552.124 - Transportation of privately owned weapons and ammunition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Transportation of privately owned weapons and... owned weapons and ammunition. (a) Privately owned firearms and ammunition will be transported in the following manner: (1) Weapons, other than weapons being transported into Fort Lewis for the first time, may...

3 CFR - Continuation of Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 3 The President 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Continuation of Emergency With Respect to Weapons of... Continuation of Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction On November 14, 1994, by Executive Order... of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of mass destruction) and the means of...

14 CFR § 1204.1005 - Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials. § 1204.1005 Section § 1204.1005 Aeronautics and Space... Weapons or Dangerous Materials § 1204.1005 Unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives... description of the consequences for unauthorized introduction of firearms or weapons, explosives, or other...

32 CFR 552.124 - Transportation of privately owned weapons and ammunition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Transportation of privately owned weapons and... owned weapons and ammunition. (a) Privately owned firearms and ammunition will be transported in the following manner: (1) Weapons, other than weapons being transported into Fort Lewis for the first time, may...

36 CFR 1002.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Weapons, traps and nets. 1002... AND RECREATION § 1002.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the following are prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net. (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap or...

32 CFR 552.122 - Personnel not authorized to possess or retain personal weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... personal weapons. 552.122 Section 552.122 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) DEPARTMENT OF... authorized to possess or retain personal weapons. (a) Possession, retention or storage of personal weapons or... enforcement officer authorized to carry the weapon under state or federal law, while on Fort Lewis or a sub...

32 CFR 552.122 - Personnel not authorized to possess or retain personal weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... personal weapons. 552.122 Section 552.122 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) DEPARTMENT OF... authorized to possess or retain personal weapons. (a) Possession, retention or storage of personal weapons or... enforcement officer authorized to carry the weapon under state or federal law, while on Fort Lewis or a sub...

32 CFR 552.124 - Transportation of privately owned weapons and ammunition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Transportation of privately owned weapons and... owned weapons and ammunition. (a) Privately owned firearms and ammunition will be transported in the following manner: (1) Weapons, other than weapons being transported into Fort Lewis for the first time, may...

76 FR 30280 - Public Meeting To Discuss the Proposed Rule on Enhanced Weapons, Firearms Background Checks, and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-25

... Proposed Rule on Enhanced Weapons, Firearms Background Checks, and Security Event Notifications AGENCY... the proposed enhanced weapons rule, the two draft regulatory guides, and the draft weapons safety.... No formal comments on the proposed enhanced weapons rule or the draft guidance documents will be...

15 CFR 742.18 - Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or Convention).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or... REGULATIONS CONTROL POLICY-CCL BASED CONTROLS § 742.18 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or Convention). States... Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction, also known as the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC...

76 FR 6087 - Draft Weapons Safety Assessment on the Use of Enhanced Weapons; Notice of Availability and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-03

... holders, and other stakeholders on a draft guidance document entitled ``Weapons Safety Assessment'' (WSA... weapons under the NRC's proposed rule titled ``Enhanced Weapons, Firearms Background Checks, and Security.... You should not include any site-specific security information in your comments. Federal rulemaking Web...

76 FR 70317 - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-10

... proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of mass destruction) and the means of...--Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction #0; #0; #0; Presidential... the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction On November 14, 1994, by Executive...

77 FR 66513 - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-05

... proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of mass destruction) and the means of delivering such weapons. On July 28, 1998, the President issued Executive Order 13094 amending Executive... the National Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction On November 14, 1994, by Executive...

Development of a high temperature ceramic-to-metal seal for Air Force Weapons Laboratory Laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Honnell, R. E.; Stoddard, S. D.

1987-03-01

Procedures were developed for fabricating vacuum tight metal-to-ceramic ring seals between Inconel 625 and MgO-3 wt % Y2O3 tubes metallized with a calcia-alumina-silica glass (CaO-29 wt % Al2O3-35 wt % SiO2) containing 50 vol % molybdenum filler. Palniro No. 1 (Au-25 wt % Pd-25 wt % Ni) was found to be the most reliable braze for joining Inconel to metallized MgO-3 wt % Y2O3 bodies. The reliabilities of the processing procedures and the material systems were demonstrated. A prototype electrical feedthrough was fabricated for 1173 K operation in air or vacuum.

Potential of preemptive DIRCM systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steinvall, Ove

2015-10-01

Manpads offer a severe threat to both civilian and military airborne platforms. The present countermeasure systems include platform maneuver, flares and DIRCM systems. Recently an increasing interest is aimed at preemptive measures e.g. to detect, identify and counter the threat before any missile has been launched. This will emphasize the importance of detecting and analyzing other signatures than those treated in conventional DIRCM systems. These may include laser emission from the target, detection of retro-reflections from optical sights and seekers as well as the optical signatures of the weapon and operator including the aiming and tracking activity. We will exemplify some of the concepts by experimental results and discuss some of the system and technology challenges.

Environmental health concerns of the Persian Gulf War.

PubMed Central

Young, R. C.; Rachal, R. E.; Huguley, J. W.

1992-01-01

Environmental health concerns in the Persian Gulf are peculiar to the geography of the region. Prevention of heat and solar injury deserves primary consideration, but cold injury also may occur in the desert. Immunizations are recommended against a number of diseases, while malarial chemoprophylaxis is necessary in Iraq and Kuwait. In addition to malaria, other parasitic diseases deserve consideration. Diarrheal diseases, diseases from the desert dust, and products of infected desert animals are of concern. Additional natural hazards are venomous bites from scorpions and desert snakes. Finally, threats of enemy action necessitated protection from nuclear biological and chemical weapons and LASER eye/skin injury. Unexploded ordinance will constitute a continuing hazard into the future. Images Figure 2 PMID:1495114

Microstructured fibres: a positive impact on defence technology?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Driscoll, E. J.; Watson, M. A.; Delmonte, T.; Petrovich, M. N.; Feng, X.; Flanagan, J. C.; Hayes, J. R.; Richardson, D. J.

2006-09-01

In this paper we seek to assess the potential impact of microstructured fibres for security and defence applications. Recent literature has presented results on using microstructured fibre for delivery of high power, high quality radiation and also on the use of microstructured fibre for broadband source generation. Whilst these two applications may appear contradictory to one another the inherent design flexibility of microstructured fibres allows fibres to be fabricated for the specific application requirements, either minimising (for delivery) or maximising (for broadband source generation) the nonlinear effects. In platform based laser applications such as infrared counter measures, remote sensing and laser directed-energy weapons, a suitable delivery fibre providing high power, high quality light delivery would allow a laser to be sited remotely from the sensor/device head. This opens up the possibility of several sensor/device types sharing the same multi-functional laser, thus reducing the complexity and hence the cost of such systems. For applications requiring broadband source characteristics, microstructured fibres can also offer advantages over conventional sources. By exploiting the nonlinear effects it is possible to realise a multifunctional source for applications such as active hyperspectral imaging, countermeasures, and biochemical sensing. These recent results suggest enormous potential for these novel fibre types to influence the next generation of photonic systems for security and defence applications. However, it is important to establish where the fibres can offer the greatest advantages and what research still needs to be done to drive the technology towards real platform solutions.

Enhancing Energy in Future Conventional Munition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peiris, Suhithi

2017-06-01

Future conventional weapons are envisioned to contain more energy per volume than current weapons. Current weapons comprise of inert steel outer case, with inner volume for energetic materials, fuzing, sensor package, propulsion system, etc. Recent research on reactive materials (RM) & new energetics, and exploiting additive manufacturing can optimize the use of both mass and volume to achieve much higher energy in future weapons. For instance, replacing inert steel with RM of similar strength, additively manufacturing fuzing packages within the weapon form factor, and combing the whole with new energetics, will enable the same lethality effects from smaller weapons as obtained from today's larger weapons. This paper will elaborate on reactive materials and properties necessary for optimal utilization in various weapon features, and touch on other aspects of enhancing energy in future conventional munition.

Why Sexually Selected Weapons Are Not Ornaments.

PubMed

McCullough, Erin L; Miller, Christine W; Emlen, Douglas J

2016-10-01

The elaboration and diversification of sexually selected weapons remain poorly understood. We argue that progress in this topic has been hindered by a strong bias in sexual selection research, and a tendency for weapons to be conflated with ornaments used in mate choice. Here, we outline how male-male competition and female choice are distinct mechanisms of sexual selection, and why weapons and ornaments are fundamentally different types of traits. We call for research on the factors contributing to weapon divergence, the potential for male-male competition to drive speciation, and the specific use of weapons in the context of direct fights versus displays. Given that weapons are first and foremost fighting structures, biomechanical approaches are an especially promising direction for understanding weapon design. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nuclear weapons modernizations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kristensen, Hans M.

This article reviews the nuclear weapons modernization programs underway in the world's nine nuclear weapons states. It concludes that despite significant reductions in overall weapons inventories since the end of the Cold War, the pace of reductions is slowing - four of the nuclear weapons states are even increasing their arsenals, and all the nuclear weapons states are busy modernizing their remaining arsenals in what appears to be a dynamic and counterproductive nuclear competition. The author questions whether perpetual modernization combined with no specific plan for the elimination of nuclear weapons is consistent with the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and concludesmore » that new limits on nuclear modernizations are needed.« less

Circumstances around weapon injury in Cambodia after departure of a peacekeeping force: prospective cohort study

PubMed Central

Meddings, David R; O’Connor, Stephanie M

1999-01-01

Objective To examine the circumstances surrounding weapon injury and combatant status of those injured by weapons. Design Prospective cohort study. Setting Northwestern Cambodia after departure of United Nations peacekeeping force. Subjects 863 people admitted to hospital for weapon injuries over 12 months. Main outcome measures Annual incidence of weapon injury by time period; proportions of injuries inflicted as a result of interfactional combat (combat injuries) and outside such combat (non-combat injuries) by combatant status and weapon type. Results The annual incidence of weapon injuries was higher than the rate observed before the peacekeeping operation. 30% of weapon injuries occurred in contexts other than interfactional combat. Most commonly these were firearm injuries inflicted intentionally on civilians. Civilians accounted for 71% of those with non-combat injuries, 42% of those with combat related injuries, and 51% of those with weapon injuries of either type. Conclusions The incidence of weapon injuries remained high when the disarmament component of a peacekeeping operation achieved only limited success. Furthermore, injuries occurring outside the context of interfactional combat accounted for a substantial proportion of all weapon injuries, were experienced disproportionately by civilians, and were most likely to entail the intentional use of a firearm against a civilian. Key messagesThe study took place in Cambodia after a United Nations peacekeeping operation that achieved only limited success in disarmamentA substantial proportion of weapon injuries was inflicted in contexts unrelated to interfactional combatThese injuries were most commonly firearm injuries inflicted intentionally on civiliansWidespread availability of weapons can facilitate social violence PMID:10445922

Personnel Attrition Rates in Historical Land Combat Operations: Susceptibility and Vulnerability of Major Anatomical Regions

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-08-01

effectiveness , estimate personnel attr;i"on, perform studies and analyses. or assess protective equipment for personnel. i II CAA-RP-93-3 DEPARTMENT OF THE...weapons or weapons effects that are difficult to localize are excluded from the 1-1 CAA-RP-93-3 scope of this paper Some examples of the types of weapons...or weapon effects excluded atr" .;i,nical weapons (encompassing war gases and other toxic substances, flame weapons. and biological agents), nuclear

A Poor Man's Nuclear Deterrent: Assessing the Value of Radiological Weapons for State Actors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Donohue, Nathan

The threat of weapons of mass destruction is an issue which remains at the forefront on national security. Nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons are all considered very dangerous by both state and non-state actors. Radiological weapons exist in that same category yet are not held in the same regard; the reason that is given is that these types of weapons are not the weapons of mass destruction that the other three are. Instead, radiological weapons are better considered weapons of mass disruption. Accordingly, in the academic and policy literature there has been very little perceived value associated with such weapons for use by state actors. However the historical focus on the military efficacy of radiological weapons has obscured the obvious truth that they may pose significant value for state actors. What this research shows is that the explosion of a radiological weapon could disrupt a target area in ways which could cripple the economy of an adversary state and promote widespread fear concerning exposure to radiation. Any such attack would not only necessitate large scale evacuation, but cleanup, decontamination, demolition, territory exclusion, and relocation. Moreover, the effects of such an attack would be unlikely to remain an isolated event as evacuated and displaced citizens spread across the nation carrying both fear and residual radiation. All of these factors would only be compounded by a state actor's ability to not only develop such weapons, but to manufacture them in such a composition that contemporary examples of such weapons grossly underestimate their impact. Accordingly, radiological weapons could hold great value for any state actor wishing to pursue their development and to threaten their use. Moreover, "while RDDs may not be well suited as "military weapons" in the classic sense, the use of RDDs could be powerfully coercive."1 In that sense, state actors could even acquire radiological weapons for their deterrent value. 1James L. Ford, "Radiological Dispersal Devices: Assessing the Transnational Threat," Strategic Forum, No. 136, (March 1998), March 29, 2012, http://www.au.af.mil/au/awc/awcgate/ndu/forum136.htm.

36 CFR § 1002.4 - Weapons, traps and nets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2013-07-01 2012-07-01 true Weapons, traps and nets. Â... USE AND RECREATION § 1002.4 Weapons, traps and nets. (a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the following are prohibited: (i) Possessing a weapon, trap or net. (ii) Carrying a weapon, trap...

Environmental Effects of Weapons Technology, A Scientists' Institute for Public Information Workbook.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McClintock, Michael; And Others

This collection of articles includes a general account of the environmental effects of modern weapons technology, a selection of news reports demonstrating the peacetime hazards of chemical and biological weapons, data on the physiological effects of the most common chemical weapons, a discussion of the hazards of biological weapons, a report of…

78 FR 67289 - Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-12

... economy of the United States posed by the proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of mass destruction) and the means of delivering such weapons. On July 28, 1998, the President... November 7, 2013 Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Proliferation of Weapons of...

The Quest for Fusion at the National Ignition Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartouni, Edward

2017-01-01

Arthur Eddington speculated in 1920 on the internal constitution of stars and described the possibility of nuclear fusion based on the then new results from special relativity and measurements of light nuclei masses. By 1929 Atkinson and Houtermans worked out the calculations for nuclear fusion in stars and initiating nuclear astrophysics. All of these sciences were pressed into service during the World War II, and the applications developed, particularly under the auspices of the Manhattan Project provided both weapons with which to wage and win that conflict, but also the possibilities to harness these applications of the nuclear processes of fission and fusion for peaceful purposes. 32 years after Eddington's speculation the United States demonstrated the application of fusion in a famous nuclear weapons test. In the following years many ideas for producing ``controlled'' fusion through inertial confinement were pursued. The invention of the laser opened up new avenues which have culminated in the National Ignition Facility, NIF. I will attempt to cover the ground between Eddington, through the Manhattan Project and provide a current status of this quest at NIF. LLNL-ABS-704367-DRAFT. This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Multiple exaggerated weapon morphs: a novel form of male polymorphism in harvestmen.

PubMed

Painting, Christina J; Probert, Anna F; Townsend, Daniel J; Holwell, Gregory I

2015-11-06

Alternative reproductive tactics in animals are commonly associated with distinct male phenotypes resulting in polymorphism of sexually selected weapons such as horns and spines. Typically, morphs are divided between small (unarmed) and large (armed) males according to one or more developmental thresholds in association with body size. Here, we describe remarkable weapon trimorphism within a single species, where two exaggerated weapon morphs and a third morph with reduced weaponry are present. Male Pantopsalis cheliferoides harvestmen display exaggerated chelicerae (jaws) which are highly variable in length among individuals. Across the same body size spectrum, however, some males belong to a distinct second exaggerated morph which possesses short, broad chelicerae. Multiple weapon morphs in a single species is a previously unknown phenomenon and our findings have significant implications for understanding weapon diversity and maintenance of polymorphism. Specifically, this species will be a valuable model for testing how weapons diverge by being able to test directly for the circumstances under which a certain weapon type is favoured and how weapon shape relates to performance.

A different kind of weapon focus: simulated training with ballistic weapons reduces change blindness.

PubMed

Taylor, J Eric T; Witt, Jessica K; Pratt, Jay

2017-01-01

Attentional allocation is flexibly altered by action-related priorities. Given that tools - and specifically weapons - can affect attentional allocation, we asked whether training with a weapon or holding a weapon during search would affect change detection. In three experiments, participants searched for changes to agents, shootable objects, or environments in the popular flicker paradigm. Participants trained with a simulated weapon or watched a video from the same training perspective and then searched for changes while holding a weapon or a control object. Results show an effect of training, highlighting the importance of sensorimotor experience for the action-relevant allocation of attention, and a possible interaction between training and the object held during search. Simulated training with ballistic weapons reduces change blindness. This result has implications for the interaction between tool use and attentional allocation.

Your Career and Nuclear Weapons: A Guide for Young Scientists and Engineers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Albrecht, Andreas; And Others

This four-part booklet examines various issues related to nuclear weapons and how they will affect an individual working as a scientist or engineer. It provides information about the history of nuclear weapons, about the weapons industry which produces them, and about new weapons programs. Issues are raised so that new or future graduates may make…

The Association Between Weapon Carrying and Health Risk Behaviors Among Adolescent Students in Bangkok, Thailand.

PubMed

Saiphoklang, On-Anong; Wongboonsin, Kua; Wongboonsin, Patcharawalai; Perngparn, Usaneya; Cottler, Linda B

2015-07-30

Carrying weapons is a significant social and public health problem worldwide, especially among adolescents. The present study examined the association between weapon carrying and related risk behaviors among Thai adolescents. A cross-sectional study of 2,588 high school and vocational school students aged 11 to 19 years from 26 schools in Bangkok, Thailand, was conducted in 2014. This study found that 7.8% of youth reported having carried a weapon in the past 12 months. The high prevalence of weapon carrying was reported by male students, and males were more likely to have reported carrying a weapon than females. The association between weapon carrying and the health risk behaviors like drinking, smoking, any drug use, and physical fighting were significant with higher odds of weapon carrying in all models. Among males, weapon carrying was related to drinking and smoking, any drug use, physical fighting, and school type. Among females, suicidal thoughts were significantly related along with drinking and smoking, any drug use, and physical fighting. Having a mother who used substances was significant only among females. These data could be used for further interventions about weapon carrying to reduce violence. © The Author(s) 2015.

Weapon use increases the severity of domestic violence but neither weapon use nor firearm access increases the risk or severity of recidivism.

PubMed

Folkes, Stephanie E F; Hilton, N Zoe; Harris, Grant T

2013-04-01

Use of weapons is a risk factor for domestic violence severity, especially lethality. It is not clear, however, whether access to firearms itself increases assault severity, or whether it is characteristic of a subgroup of offenders who are more likely to commit severe and repeated domestic assault. This reanalysis of 1,421 police reports of domestic violence by men found that 6% used a weapon during the assault and 8% had access to firearms. We expected that firearm use would be rare compared to other weapons and that actual weapon use rather than firearm access would increase the severity of domestic assaults. Firearm access was associated with assault severity, but this was mostly attributable to use of nonfirearm weapons. Weapon use was associated with older age, lower education, and relationship history as well as to assault severity. Victims were most concerned about future assaults following threats and actual injuries. Although firearm access and weapon use were related to actuarial risk of domestic violence recidivism, neither predicted the occurrence or severity of recidivism. We conclude that, consistent with previous research in the United States and Canada, firearm use in domestic violence is uncommon even among offenders with known firearm access. Weapon use is characteristic of a subgroup of offenders who commit more severe domestic violence, and seizure of weapons may be an effective intervention.

Detection and classification of concealed weapons using a magnetometer-based portal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotter, Dale K.; Roybal, Lyle G.; Polk, Robert E.

2002-08-01

A concealed weapons detection technology was developed through the support of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) to provide a non intrusive means for rapid detection, location, and archiving of data (including visual) of potential suspects and weapon threats. This technology, developed by the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL), has been applied in a portal style weapons detection system using passive magnetic sensors as its basis. This paper will report on enhancements to the weapon detection system to enable weapon classification and to discriminate threats from non-threats. Advanced signal processing algorithms were used to analyze the magnetic spectrum generated when a person passes through a portal. These algorithms analyzed multiple variables including variance in the magnetic signature from random weapon placement and/or orientation. They perform pattern recognition and calculate the probability that the collected magnetic signature correlates to a known database of weapon versus non-weapon responses. Neural networks were used to further discriminate weapon type and identify controlled electronic items such as cell phones and pagers. False alarms were further reduced by analyzing the magnetic detector response by using a Joint Time Frequency Analysis digital signal processing technique. The frequency components and power spectrum for a given sensor response were derived. This unique fingerprint provided additional information to aid in signal analysis. This technology has the potential to produce major improvements in weapon detection and classification.

Clad-pumped Er-nanoparticle-doped fiber laser (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, Colin C.; Friebele, E. Joseph; Rhonehouse, Daniel L.; Marcheschi, Barbara A.; Peele, John R.; Kim, Woohong; Sanghera, Jasbinder S.; Zhang, Jun; Chen, Youming; Pattnaik, Radha K.; Dubinskii, Mark

2017-03-01

Erbium-doped fiber lasers are attractive for directed energy weapons applications because they operate in a wavelength region that is both eye-safer and a window of high atmospheric transmission. For these applications a clad-pumped design is desirable, but the Er absorption must be high because of the areal dilution of the doped core vs. the pump cladding. High Er concentrations typically lead to Er ion clustering, resulting in quenching and upconversion. Nanoparticle (NP) doping of the core overcomes these problems by physically surrounding the Er ions with a cage of Al and O in the NP, which keeps them separated to minimize excited state energy transfer. A significant issue is obtaining high Er concentrations without the NP agglomeration that degrades the optical properties of the fiber core. We have developed the process for synthesizing stable Er-NP suspension which have been used to fabricate EDFs with Er concentrations >90 dB/m at 1532 nm. Matched clad fibers have been evaluated in a core-pumped MOPA with pump and signal wavelengths of 1475 and 1560 nm, respectively, and efficiencies of 72% with respect to absorbed pump have been obtained. We have fabricated both NP- and solution-doped double clad fibers, which have been measured in a clad-pumped laser testbed using a 1532 nm pump. The 1595 nm laser efficiency of the NP-doped fiber was 47.7%, which is high enough for what is believed to be the first laser experiment with the cladding pumped, NP-doped fiber. Further improvements are likely with a shaped cladding and new low-index polymer coatings with lower absorption in the 1500 - 1600 nm range.

The weapon focus effect is weaker with Black versus White male perpetrators.

PubMed

Pickel, Kerri L; Sneyd, Danielle E

2018-01-01

We compared the influence of a weapon's presence on eyewitnesses' memory for a White versus a Black male perpetrator. Prior data indicate that unusual objects in visual scenes attract attention and that a weapon's effect depends on how unusual it seems within the context in which it appears. Therefore, given the stereotype linking Black men and weapons, we predicted a weaker weapon focus effect with the Black perpetrator. The results of Experiment 1 supported this hypothesis using White and Black witnesses. Moreover, in Experiment 2 the weapon focus effect became nonsignificant when the Black perpetrator wore a style of clothing that is strongly associated with Black men. We propose that observing an armed Black perpetrator automatically activates a stereotype linking Black men with weapons and crime, which in turn reduces the perceived unusualness of the weapon and thus its ability to attract attention.

Weapon Possession Among College Students: A Study From a Midwestern University.

PubMed

Jang, Hyunseok; Kang, Ji Hyon; Dierenfeldt, Rick; Lindsteadt, Greg

2015-10-01

Weapon possession on college campuses causes great concern, but there remains a lack of research examining the determinants of this phenomenon. Previous studies addressing weapon possession have primarily focused on either K-12 or the general adult population. Unlike previous studies, this study examined the weapon possession among college students using data collected from a mid-sized university in Missouri, and 451 students participated. Weapon possession and other theoretical factors were measured through the self-administered survey. Logistical regression analysis revealed that weapon socialization was the most significant factor in predicting student weapon carrying. Also, gender and age were significant factors in explaining campus-based weapon possession. This research has a limitation with generalizability because the data were collected from only a single university with convenient sampling. Future studies need to cover a wider range of college students from a variety of different universities with random sampling. © The Author(s) 2014.

Weapons used by juveniles and adult offenders in U.S. parricide cases.

PubMed

Heide, Kathleen M; Petee, Thomas A

2007-11-01

In recent decades, attention has focused on juveniles who kill their parents. Research has indicated that increases in juvenile homicide have been associated with the availability of firearms, but little is known about the weapons juveniles use to kill their parents and whether their weapon usage is different from that of adult children who kill their parents. This article uses Supplementary Homicide Report data for the 24-year period 1976 to 1999 to investigate weapons selected by parricide offenders to kill biological mothers and fathers. Significant differences were found in the weapons used in matricide and patricide incidents and in the weapons selected by juvenile and adult offenders. A comparison with an earlier study by Heide revealed that weapon usage in parricide events is stable. Differences found in both studies between weapons used to kill parents and offender age are consistent with a physical strength hypothesis proposed by Heide in 1993.

Towards a tactical nuclear weapons treaty? Is There a Role of IAEA Tools of Safeguards?

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Saunders, Emily C.; Rowberry, Ariana N.; Fearey, Bryan L.

2012-07-12

In recent years, there is growing interest in formal negotiations on non-strategic or tactical nuclear weapons. With the negotiations of New START, there has been much speculation that a tactical nuclear weapons treaty should be included in the follow on to New START. This paper examines the current policy environment related to tactical weapons and some of the issues surrounding the definition of tactical nuclear weapons. We then map out the steps that would need to be taken in order to begin discussions on a tactical nuclear weapons treaty. These steps will review the potential role of the IAEA inmore » verification of a tactical nuclear weapons treaty. Specifically, does IAEA involvement in various arms control treaties serve as a useful roadmap on how to overcome some of the issues pertaining to a tactical nuclear weapons treaty?« less

Vertical nuclear proliferation.

PubMed

Sidel, Victor W

2007-01-01

All the nuclear-weapon states are working to develop new nuclear-weapon systems and upgrade their existing ones. Although the US Congress has recently blocked further development of small nuclear weapons and earth-penetrating nuclear weapons, the United States is planning a range of new warheads under the Reliable Replacement Warhead programme, and renewing its nuclear weapons infrastructure. The United Kingdom is spending 1 billion pounds sterling on updating the Atomic Weapons Establishment at Aldermaston, and about 20 billion pounds sterling on replacing its Vanguard submarines and maintaining its Trident warhead stockpile. The US has withdrawn from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and plans to install missile defence systems in Poland and the Czech Republic; Russia threatens to upgrade its nuclear countermeasures. The nuclear-weapon states should comply with their obligations under Article VI of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, as summarised in the 13-point plan agreed at the 2000 NPT Review Conference, and they should negotiate a Nuclear Weapons Convention.

Tactical Nuclear Weapons: Their Purpose and Placement

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

War II, nuclear scientists argued against the development of fusion weapons .3 In the 1970s, politicians debated the use of neutron bombs, weapons ...Tactical Nuclear Weapons : Their Purpose and Placement BY EDWARD G. FERGUSON A THESIS SUBMITTED TO THE FACULTY OF THE...This study answers the question -- Why does America have tactical nuclear weapons (TNWs) in Europe today? – treating America and the North

75 FR 68671 - Continuation of Emergency With Respect to Weapons of Mass Destruction

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-08

... the United States posed by the proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons (weapons of... Weapons of Mass Destruction #0; #0; #0; Presidential Documents #0; #0; #0;#0;Federal Register / Vol. 75... [[Page 68673

Aggression and attitudes to time and risk in weapon-using violent offenders.

PubMed

Brennan, Iain R; Moore, Simon C; Shepherd, Jonathan P

2010-08-15

The use of weapons in violence increases both the severity of harm to victims and the severity of legal consequences for offenders, but little is known of the characteristics of violent offenders who choose to use weapons. Levels of anger, attitude to risk, time discounting, and antisocial history among a sample of weapon-using violent offenders (n=15) were compared to violent offenders who had not used a weapon (n=10) and nonviolent offenders (n=15). Results showed that weapon-using violent offenders displayed greater trait aggression and were more risk seeking than other offender types. In addition, weapon-using violent offenders were first convicted at an earlier age and truanted from school more frequently compared to other offender types. The results indicate that weapon users are more aggressive and more risk taking, but no more present focused than other violent and nonviolent offenders. Further research into the cognitive and social factors that influence weapon use is required if this dangerous behavior is to be reduced. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiple exaggerated weapon morphs: a novel form of male polymorphism in harvestmen

PubMed Central

Painting, Christina J.; Probert, Anna F.; Townsend, Daniel J.; Holwell, Gregory I.

2015-01-01

Alternative reproductive tactics in animals are commonly associated with distinct male phenotypes resulting in polymorphism of sexually selected weapons such as horns and spines. Typically, morphs are divided between small (unarmed) and large (armed) males according to one or more developmental thresholds in association with body size. Here, we describe remarkable weapon trimorphism within a single species, where two exaggerated weapon morphs and a third morph with reduced weaponry are present. Male Pantopsalis cheliferoides harvestmen display exaggerated chelicerae (jaws) which are highly variable in length among individuals. Across the same body size spectrum, however, some males belong to a distinct second exaggerated morph which possesses short, broad chelicerae. Multiple weapon morphs in a single species is a previously unknown phenomenon and our findings have significant implications for understanding weapon diversity and maintenance of polymorphism. Specifically, this species will be a valuable model for testing how weapons diverge by being able to test directly for the circumstances under which a certain weapon type is favoured and how weapon shape relates to performance. PMID:26542456

Monte Carlo calculations of the incineration of plutonium and minor actinides of laser fusion inertial confinement fusion fission energy (LIFE) engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adem, ACIR; Eşref, BAYSAL

2018-07-01

In this paper, neutronic analysis in a laser fusion inertial confinement fusion fission energy (LIFE) engine fuelled plutonium and minor actinides using a MCNP codes was investigated. LIFE engine fuel zone contained 10 vol% TRISO particles and 90 vol% natural lithium coolant mixture. TRISO fuel compositions have Mod①: reactor grade plutonium (RG-Pu), Mod②: weapon grade plutonium (WG-Pu) and Mod③: minor actinides (MAs). Tritium breeding ratios (TBR) were computed as 1.52, 1.62 and 1.46 for Mod①, Mod② and Mod③, respectively. The operation period was computed as ∼21 years when the reference TBR > 1.05 for a self-sustained reactor for all investigated cases. Blanket energy multiplication values (M) were calculated as 4.18, 4.95 and 3.75 for Mod①, Mod② and Mod③, respectively. The burnup (BU) values were obtained as ∼1230, ∼1550 and ∼1060 GWd tM–1, respectively. As a result, the higher BU were provided with using TRISO particles for all cases in LIFE engine.

Target discrimination strategies in optics detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sjöqvist, Lars; Allard, Lars; Henriksson, Markus; Jonsson, Per; Pettersson, Magnus

2013-10-01

Detection and localisation of optical assemblies used for weapon guidance or sniper rifle scopes has attracted interest for security and military applications. Typically a laser system is used to interrogate a scene of interest and the retro-reflected radiation is detected. Different system approaches for area coverage can be realised ranging from flood illumination to step-and-stare or continuous scanning schemes. Independently of the chosen approach target discrimination is a crucial issue, particularly if a complex scene such as in an urban environment and autonomous operation is considered. In this work target discrimination strategies in optics detection are discussed. Typical parameters affecting the reflected laser radiation from the target are the wavelength, polarisation properties, temporal effects and the range resolution. Knowledge about the target characteristics is important to predict the target discrimination capability. Two different systems were used to investigate polarisation properties and range resolution information from targets including e.g. road signs, optical reflexes, rifle sights and optical references. The experimental results and implications on target discrimination will be discussed. If autonomous operation is required target discrimination becomes critical in order to reduce the number of false alarms.

Coherently coupled high-power fiber arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderegg, Jesse; Brosnan, Stephen; Cheung, Eric; Epp, Paul; Hammons, Dennis; Komine, Hiroshi; Weber, Mark; Wickham, Michael

2006-02-01

A four-element fiber array has demonstrated 470 watts of coherently phased, linearly polarized light energy in a single far-field spot. Each element consists of a single-mode fiber-amplifier chain. Phase control of each element is achieved with a Lithium-Niobate phase modulator. A master laser provides a linearly polarized, narrow linewidth signal that is split into five channels. Four channels are individually amplified using polarization maintaining fiber power amplifiers. The fifth channel is used as a reference arm. It is frequency shifted and then combined interferometrically with a portion of each channel's signal. Detectors sense the heterodyne modulation signal, and an electronics circuit measures the relative phase for each channel. Compensating adjustments are then made to each channel's phase modulator. This effort represents the results of a multi-year effort to achieve high power from a single element fiber amplifier and to understand the important issues involved in coherently combining many individual elements to obtain sufficient optical power for directed energy weapons. Northrop Grumman Corporation and the High Energy Laser Joint Technology Office jointly sponsored this work.

Power availability at terrestrial receptor sites for laser-power transmission from the satellite power system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beverly, R. E., III

1982-01-01

A statistical model was developed for relating the temporal transmission parameters of a laser beam from a solar power satellite to observable meteorological data to determine the influence of weather on power reception at the earth-based receiver. Sites within 100 miles of existing high voltage transmission lines were examined and the model was developed for clear-sky and clouded conditions. The cases of total transmission through clouds at certain wavelengths, no transmission, and partial transmission were calculated for the cloud portion of the model. The study covered cirriform, stratiform, cumiliform, and mixed type clouds and the possibility of boring holes through the clouds with the beam. Utilization of weapons-quality beams for hole boring, was found to yield power availability increases of 9-33%, although no beneficial effects could be predicted in regions of persistent cloud cover. An efficiency of 80% was determined as possible if several receptor sites were available within 200-300 miles of each other, thereby allowing changes of reception point in cases of unacceptable meteorological conditions.

Project on Advanced Systems and Concepts for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (PASCC)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD, defined as nuclear, chemical , and biological) and weapons of mass effect (WME, defined as other high... Chemical Weapons • Scoping Study for a U.S.-Israel Strategic Dialogued 5 • U.S.-India Strategic Dialogue • Implications of Indian Tactical...of Chemical Weapons : Strategic Dialogue, Research, and Report Performer: Arizona State University (ASU) Principal Investigator: Orde Kittrie Cost

Do Weapons Facilitate Adolescent Delinquency? An Examination of Weapon Carrying and Delinquency Among Adolescents.

PubMed

Emmert, Amanda D; Hall, Gina Penly; Lizotte, Alan J

2018-03-01

This article examines whether weapon carrying influences the frequency and variety of violent, property, and drug delinquency adolescents commit through fixed-effects analyses of data from the Rochester Youth Development Study (RYDS). We conclude that weapon carrying contributes to violent, substance, and property delinquency, and delinquent behaviors learned during weapon carrying continue to affect substance and property delinquency long after carrying has ceased.

Victimization and health risk factors among weapon-carrying youth.

PubMed

Stayton, Catherine; McVeigh, Katharine H; Olson, E Carolyn; Perkins, Krystal; Kerker, Bonnie D

2011-11-01

To compare health risks of 2 subgroups of weapon carriers: victimized and nonvictimized youth. 2003-2007 NYC Youth Risk Behavior Surveys were analyzed using bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression. Among NYC teens, 7.5% reported weapon carrying without victimization; 6.9% reported it with victimization. Both subgroups were more likely than non-weapon carriers to binge drink, use marijuana, smoke, fight, and have multiple sex partners; weapon carriers with victimization also experienced persistent sadness and attempted suicide. Subgroups of weapon carriers have distinct profiles. Optimal response should pair disciplinary action with screening for behavioral and mental health concerns and victimization.

Chemical weapons: documented use and compounds on the horizon.

PubMed

Bismuth, Chantal; Borron, Stephen W; Baud, Frederic J; Barriot, Patrick

2004-04-01

Man's inhumanity to man is expressed through a plethora of tools of modern warfare and terror. The use of chemical and biological weapons with the goals of assault, demoralisation and lethality has been documented in recent history, both on the battlefield and in urban terror against civilians. A general review of a few of the currently employed chemical weapons and biological toxins, along with a look at potential chemical weapons and tools of counter-terrorism, follows. While these weapons are fearsome elements, the dangers should be viewed in the context of the widespread availability and efficacy of conventional weapons.

Girls and Weapons: An International Study of the Perpetration of Violence

PubMed Central

Butters, Jennifer E.; Cousineau, Marie-Marthe; Harrison, Lana; Korf, Dirk

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to describe delinquent girls' weapons preferences where and how often they carried weapons and to identify the most important factors that explained four different weapon-related violent outcomes. A large, high-risk sample of female adolescents consisting of 510 girls aged 14–17 in four cities were interviewed using the same questionnaire and methods. Tabular and logistic regression analyses were applied. Knives emerged as the most frequently reported weapon in all cities. Rates of both lifetime victimization and perpetration of violence with weapons were high in all sites. Starting to carry a weapon as a result of violence was reported by 40% of the girls in Toronto, 28% in Philadelphia, 25% in Amsterdam, and 16% in Montreal. The major predictors of weapon perpetrated violent behaviours included ethnic origin, early onset of delinquent activities, participation in delinquent acts in the past 12 months, gang fighting and carrying a weapon as a result of violence. Site, age and heavy alcohol consumption had a minor impact, and drug use, drug selling, and neighborhood features, none. Despite numerous differences in weapons' prevalence across cities, the logistic regression found that site was only significant in use of an object (Toronto) and not significant in threatening or hurting someone with either a knife or a gun or actually hurting others with a weapon. These findings suggest commonality in serious female violence that extends beyond borders and cultures. PMID:16937086

75 FR 2482 - Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-15

...: Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). Title: Chemical Weapons Convention Declaration and Report Handbook... the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), an international arms control treaty. The Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act of 1998 and Commerce Chemical Weapons Convention Regulations (CWCR) specify the...

Alternative World Scenarios for a New Order of Nations.

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-01-01

chemical, biological and nuclear weapons continues. Despite the reduction of world tensions, almost every industrial nation will be armed with a range...of conventional, chemical, and biological weapons. Most of these weapons will have been supplied to them by the EC, the United States, and China before...weapons and delivery systems as well as chemical and biological weapons to build or increase their arsenals. The combined effect of new found economic

Diode laser cyclophotocoagulation: histopathology in two cases of clinical failure.

PubMed

Walland, M J; McKelvie, P A

1998-10-01

Diode laser photocoagulation is an alternative technique to Nd:YAG laser or cryotherapy in cycloablation. It may be more titratable with fewer local side effects. The effect is not, however, always maintained in the long term. The authors wished to establish histologic correlates with in vivo clinical outcomes of failure. Histologic findings in two cases of clinical failure of a single treatment with contact diode laser cyclophotocoagulation are presented. A recurrence of uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) finally led to enucleation of the eyes 5 and 6 months after laser treatment. Histologic examination demonstrated preservation in both specimens of some ciliary processes outside the treatment zone, which was evidently over the pars plana in a case with a relatively low axial length. Persisting damage of treated ciliary processes was seen. Some efforts at ciliary epithelial regeneration were made in these, but in a disorganized and presumably nonfunctional fashion, so that a histologic explanation for the gradual postoperative rise in IOP was not evident. Diode laser cyclophotocoagulation may lower IOP by mechanisms other than destruction of ciliary epithelium. Reversal of a laser-induced increase in uveoscleral outflow may explain the gradual rise in IOP seen postoperatively in these two cases, given the ineffectual secretory epithelial regeneration in one case and the treatment over the pars plana in the other. Methods to enhance probe placement, such as ultrasound biomicroscopy, transillumination, or axial length measurement, may be useful to ensure that treatment is directed to the pars plicata. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1998;29:852-856.] Cyclodestructive procedures have been likened to "duck hunting in the dark (without radar) since the 'shooter' sees neither the target nor the effect of the blast!" Although the use of Nd:YAG and semiconductor diode laser cyclophotocoagulation instead of cyclocryotherapy has progressively refined the caliber of the weapon and its titratability, aim in the placement of the destruction remains inexact. The assumption has generally been, however, that treatment must be directed to ablation of the ciliary epithelium to achieve a hypotensive effect. We present the histopathology from two cases of contact diode laser cyclophotocoagulation (DLCPC), both of which resulted in initially successful intraocular pressure (IOP) control, but which finally required enucleation for problems supervening on a recurrently raised IOP.

48 CFR 25.301-3 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Weapons. 25.301-3 Section... FOREIGN ACQUISITION Contracts Performed Outside the United States 25.301-3 Weapons. The contracting officer shall follow agency procedures and the weapons policy established by the combatant commander or...

22 CFR 103.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... WEAPONS CONVENTION AND THE CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION IMPLEMENTATION ACT OF 1998 ON THE TAKING OF SAMPLES... Office of Export Administration and the Office of Export Enforcement. Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or... Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction, and its annexes opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and...

48 CFR 25.301-3 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Weapons. 25.301-3 Section... FOREIGN ACQUISITION Contracts Performed Outside the United States 25.301-3 Weapons. The contracting officer shall follow agency procedures and the weapons policy established by the combatant commander or...

22 CFR 103.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... WEAPONS CONVENTION AND THE CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION IMPLEMENTATION ACT OF 1998 ON THE TAKING OF SAMPLES... Office of Export Administration and the Office of Export Enforcement. Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or... Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction, and its annexes opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and...

48 CFR 25.301-3 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Weapons. 25.301-3 Section... FOREIGN ACQUISITION Contracts Performed Outside the United States 25.301-3 Weapons. The contracting officer shall follow agency procedures and the weapons policy established by the combatant commander or...

48 CFR 25.301-3 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Weapons. 25.301-3 Section... FOREIGN ACQUISITION Contracts Performed Outside the United States 25.301-3 Weapons. The contracting officer shall follow agency procedures and the weapons policy established by the combatant commander or...

48 CFR 25.301-3 - Weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Weapons. 25.301-3 Section... FOREIGN ACQUISITION Contracts Performed Outside the United States 25.301-3 Weapons. The contracting officer shall follow agency procedures and the weapons policy established by the combatant commander or...

Combating the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jenkins, Bonnie

1997-01-01

Reveals the growing threat posed to all countries by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Discusses the international effort combating this proliferation including the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, Strategic Arms Reduction Treaties, Biological Weapons Convention, and Chemical Weapons Convention. Also considers regional arms…

Threat is in the sex of the beholder: men find weapons faster than do women.

PubMed

Sulikowski, Danielle; Burke, Darren

2014-10-29

In visual displays, people locate potentially threatening stimuli, such as snakes, spiders, and weapons, more quickly than similar benign stimuli, such as beetles and gadgets. Such biases are likely adaptive, facilitating fast responses to potential threats. Currently, and historically, men have engaged in more weapons-related activities (fighting and hunting) than women. If biases of visual attention for weapons result from selection pressures related to these activities, then we would predict such biases to be stronger in men than in women. The current study reports the results of two visual search experiments, in which men showed a stronger bias of attention toward guns and knives than did women, whether the weapons were depicted wielded or not. When the weapons were depicted wielded, both sexes searched for them with more caution than when they were not. Neither of these effects extended reliably to syringes, a non-weapon-yet potentially threatening-object. The findings are discussed with respect to the "weapons effect" and social coercion theory.

BB and pellet guns--toys or deadly weapons?

PubMed

Harris, W; Luterman, A; Curreri, P W

1983-07-01

BB and pellet weapons are not included in gun control laws and are often sold as children's toys. Injuries caused by these weapons have been considered trivial unless they involve vulnerable surface organs such as the eye. The purpose of this study was to review the management of six cases of pellet or BB gun injuries that required abdominal exploration at the University of South Alabama Medical Center from January 1980 through June 1982. Five of the six patients had significant internal injuries including perforations of the stomach, jejunum, liver, and pancreas. The ballistics of pneumatic weapons are reviewed. The muzzle velocities of many of these weapons necessitate that wounds caused by these weapons be handled with the same principles as for any small-caliber, low-velocity (less than 1,200 feet/second) weapons. Public education programs are urgently needed to educate parents as to the potential danger involved in purchasing these weapons for unsupervised use as toys by children.

[Modern pneumatic weapons and injuries they cause].

PubMed

Kozachenko, I N

2013-01-01

The data on the history of development and further improvement of pneumatic weapons are presented with special reference to specific features of different types and varieties of these weapons, cartridges for them, and the sphere of their application. Investigations into peculiarities of damages caused by high-capacity pneumatic weapons to the objects of forensic medical expertise affected from different distances are reviewed. Results of forensic medical expertise and clinical studies on the structure of body injuries inflicted by gunshots from pneumatic weapons to the human body are discussed. The author emphasizes the necessity of developing up-to-date terminology and classification of gunshot injuries caused by shooting from pneumatic weapons.

77 FR 75145 - Impact of the Implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) on Commercial Activities...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-19

... the Implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) on Commercial Activities Involving ``Schedule 1'' Chemicals (Including Schedule 1 Chemicals Produced as Intermediates) Through Calendar Year... Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), through the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act (CWCIA) and...

32 CFR 552.125 - Disposition of confiscated weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2012-07-01 2009-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated weapons. 552.125..., Ammunition, and Explosives-Fort Lewis, Washington § 552.125 Disposition of confiscated weapons. Commanders will maintain confiscated weapons in the unit arms room pending final disposition. They will provide...

32 CFR 552.125 - Disposition of confiscated weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Disposition of confiscated weapons. 552.125..., Ammunition, and Explosives-Fort Lewis, Washington § 552.125 Disposition of confiscated weapons. Commanders will maintain confiscated weapons in the unit arms room pending final disposition. They will provide...

32 CFR 552.125 - Disposition of confiscated weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated weapons. 552.125..., Ammunition, and Explosives-Fort Lewis, Washington § 552.125 Disposition of confiscated weapons. Commanders will maintain confiscated weapons in the unit arms room pending final disposition. They will provide...

32 CFR 552.125 - Disposition of confiscated weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2011-07-01 2009-07-01 true Disposition of confiscated weapons. 552.125..., Ammunition, and Explosives-Fort Lewis, Washington § 552.125 Disposition of confiscated weapons. Commanders will maintain confiscated weapons in the unit arms room pending final disposition. They will provide...

32 CFR 552.125 - Disposition of confiscated weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 32 National Defense 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Disposition of confiscated weapons. 552.125..., Ammunition, and Explosives-Fort Lewis, Washington § 552.125 Disposition of confiscated weapons. Commanders will maintain confiscated weapons in the unit arms room pending final disposition. They will provide...

TMD detection and tracking using improved AWACS sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petersen, Steve; Kinashi, Yasuhiro; Leslie, Daniel

1995-01-01

This paper identifies an UOES (User Operational Evaluation Systems) version of an airborne surveillance sensor funded by the BMDO (Ballistic Missile Defense Organization). The sensors will be integrated into an operational AWACS E-3 upgrade program. This BMDO program initiative is called Extended Airborne Global Launch Evaluator, or EAGLE. Initial Operational Capability (IOC) of the EAGLE system will be ready in time to support the THAAD/GBR UOES capability. This airborne system, when developed, will consist of a passive infrared surveillance sensor (IRSS) with an active laser-ranger, on board an upgraded AWACS E3 aircraft to operate effectively in the TMD (theater missile defense) mission. The objective for the EAGLE is to field, in a reasonably short time and at a relatively low cost, a cueing sensor capability in regional conflicts to augment the existing space-based surveillance systems. With autonomous surveillance capability to search a wide-sector field, the EAGLE can detect and track boosting TBM's shortly after launch or as they break the clouds. Its passive IR sensor can also detect and track warm hardbody targets. Together with its laser-ranger, it is able to determine, immediately after the booster burn-out, very precise target state vectors that are accurate enough to predict their eventual impact points, to cue fire control radars, and to engage the weapons, if needed. Its primary TMD mission is to provide precise cueing of fire control radars to initiate the active defense weapon systems. Accurate cues from the EAGLE will off load radar resources to enable earlier detection of the targets at longer extended ranges, thereby increasing the interceptor battlespace for potentially more effective defense engagements and opportunities. It can also provide a precise early warning message to enable immediate TBM attack assessment and appropriate selection of defense engagement options by the battle manager. The functions of the sensor suite can be distributed, such that it can be tasked independently to observe the threat intercept, while providing continuous surveillance of new TBM launches, to support the kill assessment function for shoot-look-shoot opportunities. Another potential function that can be performed by the EAGLE is the estimation of TMD launch points (LPE) for counterforce support. This technical paper provides an expanded discussion of the EAGLE's mission roles, specific system functions, and its detection and tracking performance capability. The paper also addresses the sensor and the laser subsystem design characteristics and operational modes required to accomplish all its functions. Initial analyses indicate that the impact of scattering and absorption of the IR signatures and laser signals will be minimal on the performance of the system. Recent satellite data provides measurement of atmospheric extinction.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Canavan, G.H.

At low force levels stability indices depend primarily on the number of vulnerable missiles and the number of weapons on them. The index reduces to a product of the number of vulnerable missiles and the differences between normalized second and first strikes by vulnerable weapons. As the number of weapons per vulnerable missile decreases, the index rapidly approaches stability. Further reductions in vulnerable and survivable missiles and weapons do not affect stability, although they do reduce first and second strikes. Modest weapon reconstitution degrades stability significantly.

Responding to chemical weapons violations in Syria: legal, health, and humanitarian recommendations.

PubMed

Brooks, Julia; Erickson, Timothy B; Kayden, Stephanie; Ruiz, Raul; Wilkinson, Stephen; Burkle, Frederick M

2018-01-01

The repeated use of prohibited chemical weapons in the Syrian conflict poses serious health, humanitarian, and security threats to civilians, healthcare personnel, and first responders. Moreover, the use of chemical weapons constitutes a clear and egregious violation of international law-likely amounting to a war crime-for which continued impunity is setting a dangerous precedent in relation to current and future conflicts. This debate article calls upon concerned states, organizations, and individuals to respond urgently and unequivocally to this serious breach of international legal and humanitarian norms. Based on health, humanitarian, and legal findings, this article calls for concrete action to: 1) reduce the risk of chemical weapons being used in current and future conflicts; 2) review and support the preparedness equipment and antidote supplies of first responders, humanitarian organizations, and military forces operating in Syria; 3) support international mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing the prohibition on chemical weapons, including through criminal accountability; 4) support civilian victims of chemical weapons attacks, including refugees; and 5) re-commit to the complete elimination of chemical weapons in compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention (1993), a comprehensive treaty that bans chemical weapons and requires their complete destruction. All involved states and organizations should take urgent steps to ensure the protection of the most vulnerable victims of conflict, including victims of chemical weapons attacks in Syria, and to reinforce international law in the face of such serious violations.

Emergency department evaluation after conducted energy weapon use: review of the literature for the clinician.

PubMed

Vilke, Gary M; Bozeman, William P; Chan, Theodore C

2011-05-01

Conductive energy weapons (CEWs) are used daily by law enforcement, and patients are often brought to an emergency department (ED) for medical clearance. To review the medical literature on the topic of CEWs and to offer evidence-based recommendations to Emergency Physicians for evaluation and treatment of patients who have received a CEW exposure. A MEDLINE literature search from 1988 to 2010 was performed and limited to human studies published from January 1988 to January 20, 2010 for English language articles with the following keywords: TASER, conductive energy device(s), electronic weapon(s), conductive energy weapon(s), non-lethal weapon(s), conducted energy device(s), conducted energy weapon(s), conductive electronic device(s), and electronic control device(s). Studies identified then underwent a structured review from which results could be evaluated. There were 140 articles on CEWs screened, and 20 appropriate articles were rigorously reviewed and recommendations given. These studies did not report any evidence of dangerous laboratory abnormalities, physiologic changes, or immediate or delayed cardiac ischemia or dysrhythmias after exposure to CEW electrical discharges of up to 15 s. The current medical literature does not support routine performance of laboratory studies, electrocardiograms, or prolonged ED observation or hospitalization for ongoing cardiac monitoring after CEW exposure in an otherwise asymptomatic awake and alert patient. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Distinguishing among weapons offenders, drug offenders, and weapons and drug offenders based on childhood predictors and adolescent correlates.

PubMed

Stephens, Skye; Day, David M

2013-07-01

Weapons and drug offences incur a large cost to society and tend to be strongly associated. Improved understanding of their antecedents could inform targeted early intervention and prevention programmes. This study aimed to examine differences in criminal careers, childhood predictors and adolescent correlates among weapons-only offenders, drugs-only offenders and a versatile group of weapons + drugs offenders. We conducted a longitudinal records study of 455 young Canadians charged with drug and/or weapons offences who started their offending in late childhood/early adolescence. Consistent with expectation, differences emerged in their criminal careers as the versatile group had a longer criminal career and desisted from offending at a later age than weapons-only offenders. Against prediction, weapons-only offenders experienced the greatest number of childhood predictors and adolescent correlates. The three offending groups could be differentiated on offending trajectories and developmental factors.In making links between past events and later behaviour, life-course criminology may inform development of effective early intervention and prevention strategies.As weapons-only offenders experience the greatest level of adversity in childhood and adolescence, they may benefit most (of these three groups) from early intervention and prevention programmes.A reduction in weapon carrying and use might be achieved by early identification of children risk factors (e.g. family adversity) and appropriate intervention. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Vulnerability assessment of a space based weapon platform electronic system exposed to a thermonuclear weapon detonation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perez, C. L.; Johnson, J. O.

Rapidly changing world events, the increased number of nations with inter-continental ballistic missile capability, and the proliferation of nuclear weapon technology will increase the number of nuclear threats facing the world today. Monitoring these nation's activities and providing an early warning and/or intercept system via reconnaissance and surveillance satellites and space based weapon platforms is a viable deterrent against a surprise nuclear attack. However, the deployment of satellite and weapon platform assets in space will subject the sensitive electronic equipment to a variety of natural and man-made radiation environments. These include Van Allen Belt protons and electrons; galactic and solar flare protons; and neutrons, gamma rays, and x-rays from intentionally detonated fission and fusion weapons. In this paper, the MASH vl.0 code system is used to estimate the dose to the critical electronics components of an idealized space based weapon platform from neutron and gamma-ray radiation emitted from a thermonuclear weapon detonation in space. Fluence and dose assessments were performed for the platform fully loaded, and in several stages representing limited engagement scenarios. The results indicate vulnerabilities to the Command, Control, and Communication bay instruments from radiation damage for a nuclear weapon detonation for certain source/platform orientations. The distance at which damage occurs will depend on the weapon yield (n,(gamma)/kiloton) and size (kilotons).

Integrated cockpit design for the Army helicopter improvement program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Drennen, T.; Bowen, B.

1984-01-01

The main Army Helicopter Improvement Program (AHIP) mission is to navigate precisely, locate targets accurately, communicate their position to other battlefield elements, and to designate them for laser guided weapons. The onboard navigation and mast-mounted sight (MMS) avionics enable accurate tracking of current aircraft position and subsequent target location. The AHIP crewstation development was based on extensive mission/task analysis, function allocation, total system design, and test and verification. The avionics requirements to meet the mission was limited by the existing aircraft structural and performance characteristics and resultant space, weight, and power restrictions. These limitations and night operations requirement led to the use of night vision goggles. The combination of these requirements and limitations dictated an integrated control/display approach using multifunction displays and controls.

Millimeter wave radars raise weapon IQ

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lerner, E. J.

1985-02-01

The problems encountered by laser and IR homing devices for guided munitions may be tractable with warhead-mounted mm-wave radars. Operating at about 100 GHz and having several kilometers range, mm-wave radars see through darkness, fog, rain and smoke. The radar must be coupled with an analyzer that discerns moving and stationary targets and higher priority targets. The target lock-on can include shut-off of the transmitter and reception of naturally-generated mm-waves bouncing off the target when in the terminal phase of the flight. Monopulse transmitters have simplified the radar design, although mass production of finline small radar units has yet to be accomplished, particularly in combining GaAs, ferrites and other materials on one monolithic chip.

S&TR Preview: Smashing Materials to Reveal Unusual Behavior

ScienceCinema

Hunsberger, Maren; Akin, Minta; Chau, Ricky

2018-06-12

Squeeze a material hard enough, and its structure and properties will change, sometimes dramatically so. With enough heat and pressure, scientists can turn pencil lead (graphite), one of Earth’s softest materials, into diamond, one of its hardest. Apply even more pressure—such as might be found in explosions, detonating nuclear weapons, laser fusion experiments, meteorite impacts, or the hearts of stars and planets—and materials can take stranger forms. Deep in Jupiter’s core, for instance, where pressures likely reach 50 to 100 million times that of Earth’s atmosphere, hydrogen is predicted to be a metallic liquid rather than the familiar transparent gas.

Identification of nuclear weapons

DOEpatents

Mihalczo, J.T.; King, W.T.

1987-04-10

A method and apparatus for non-invasively indentifying different types of nuclear weapons is disclosed. A neutron generator is placed against the weapon to generate a stream of neutrons causing fissioning within the weapon. A first detects the generation of the neutrons and produces a signal indicative thereof. A second particle detector located on the opposite side of the weapon detects the fission particles and produces signals indicative thereof. The signals are converted into a detected pattern and a computer compares the detected pattern with known patterns of weapons and indicates which known weapon has a substantially similar pattern. Either a time distribution pattern or noise analysis pattern, or both, is used. Gamma-neutron discrimination and a third particle detector for fission particles adjacent the second particle detector are preferably used. The neutrons are generated by either a decay neutron source or a pulled neutron particle accelerator.

Structural adaptations to diverse fighting styles in sexually selected weapons

PubMed Central

McCullough, Erin L.; Tobalske, Bret W.; Emlen, Douglas J.

2014-01-01

The shapes of sexually selected weapons differ widely among species, but the drivers of this diversity remain poorly understood. Existing explanations suggest weapon shapes reflect structural adaptations to different fighting styles, yet explicit tests of this hypothesis are lacking. We constructed finite element models of the horns of different rhinoceros beetle species to test whether functional specializations for increased performance under species-specific fighting styles could have contributed to the diversification of weapon form. We find that horns are both stronger and stiffer in response to species-typical fighting loads and that they perform more poorly under atypical fighting loads, which suggests weapons are structurally adapted to meet the functional demands of fighting. Our research establishes a critical link between weapon form and function, revealing one way male–male competition can drive the diversification of animal weapons. PMID:25201949

Structural adaptations to diverse fighting styles in sexually selected weapons.

PubMed

McCullough, Erin L; Tobalske, Bret W; Emlen, Douglas J

2014-10-07

The shapes of sexually selected weapons differ widely among species, but the drivers of this diversity remain poorly understood. Existing explanations suggest weapon shapes reflect structural adaptations to different fighting styles, yet explicit tests of this hypothesis are lacking. We constructed finite element models of the horns of different rhinoceros beetle species to test whether functional specializations for increased performance under species-specific fighting styles could have contributed to the diversification of weapon form. We find that horns are both stronger and stiffer in response to species-typical fighting loads and that they perform more poorly under atypical fighting loads, which suggests weapons are structurally adapted to meet the functional demands of fighting. Our research establishes a critical link between weapon form and function, revealing one way male-male competition can drive the diversification of animal weapons.

Weapon Involvement in the Victimization of Children.

PubMed

Mitchell, Kimberly J; Hamby, Sherry L; Turner, Heather A; Shattuck, Anne; Jones, Lisa M

2015-07-01

To report the prevalence of weapons involved in the victimization of youth with particular emphasis on weapons with a "high lethality risk" and how such exposure fits into the broader victimization and life experiences of children and adolescents. Data were collected as part of the Second National Survey of Children's Exposure to Violence, a nationally representative telephone survey of youth ages 2 to 17 years and caregivers (N = 4114) conducted in 2011. Estimates from the Second National Survey of Children's Exposure to Violence indicate that almost 14 million youth, ages 2–17, in the United States have been exposed to violence involving a weapon in their lifetimes as witnesses or victims,or .1 in 5 children in this age group [corrected]. More than 2 million youth in the United States (1 in 33) have been directly assaulted in incidents where the high lethality risk weapons of guns and knives were used. Differences were noted between victimizations involving higher and lower lethality risk weapons as well as between any weapon involvement versus none. Poly-victims, youth with 7 or more victimization types, were particularly likely to experience victimization with any weapon, as well as victimization with a highly lethal weapon compared with nonpoly-victims. Findings add to the field's broadening conceptualization of youth victimization highlighting the potentially highly consequential risk factor of weapon exposure as a component of victimization experiences on the mental health of youth. Further work on improving gun safety practices and taking steps to reduce children's exposure to weapon-involved violence is warranted to reduce this problem. Copyright © 2015 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Weapons Retrieved After the Implementation of Emergency Department Metal Detection.

PubMed

Malka, S Terez; Chisholm, Robin; Doehring, Marla; Chisholm, Carey

2015-09-01

Several high-profile violent incidents have occurred within emergency departments (EDs). There are no recent studies reporting the effectiveness of ED metal detection. Our aim was to assess the effect of metal detection on ED weapons retrieval. In September 2011, a metal detector was installed at the entrance of an urban, high-volume teaching hospital ED. The security company recorded retrieved firearms, knives, chemical sprays, and other weapons. We performed qualitative analysis of weapons retrieval data for a 26-month period. A total of 5877 weapons were retrieved, an average of 218 per month: 268 firearms, 4842 knives, 512 chemical sprays, and 275 other weapons, such as brass knuckles, stun guns, and box cutters. The number of retrieved guns decreased from 2012 to 2013 (from 182 to 47), despite an increase in metal detection hours from 8 h per day to 16 h per day. The number of retrieved knives, chemical sprays, and other weapons increased. Recovered knives increased from 2062 in 2012 to 2222 in 2013, chemical sprays increased from 170 to 305, and other weapons increased from 51 to 201. A large number of weapons were retrieved after the initiation of metal detection in the ED entrance. Increasing hours of metal detection increased the number of retrieved knives, chemical sprays, and other weapons. Retrieved firearms decreased after increasing metal detection hours. Metal detection in the ED entrance is effective in reducing entrance of weapons into the ED. Metal detectors may offer additional benefit in reducing attempts to enter with firearms. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

7 CFR 502.13 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 502.13 Section 502.13....13 Weapons and explosives. No person while in or on BARC property shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except as officially authorized for...

49 CFR 1544.219 - Carriage of accessible weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 9 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Carriage of accessible weapons. 1544.219 Section...: AIR CARRIERS AND COMMERCIAL OPERATORS Operations § 1544.219 Carriage of accessible weapons. (a... weapons, do not apply to a law enforcement officer (LEO) aboard a flight for which screening is required...

36 CFR 520.15 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Weapons and explosives. 520... Weapons and explosives. No person while on the premises shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except for official purposes, nor shall any person...

36 CFR § 504.14 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2013-07-01 2012-07-01 true Weapons and explosives. § 504... REGULATIONS GOVERNING SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS § 504.14 Weapons and explosives. No person while on the premises shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either...

31 CFR 700.11 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Weapons and explosives. 700.11 Section... ENFORCEMENT TRAINING CENTER (FLETC) BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS § 700.11 Weapons and explosives. No person, while on the property, shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or...

Adolescents Who Carry Weapons to School: A Review of Cases

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Finkenbine, Ryan D.; Dwyer, R. Gregg

2006-01-01

Multiple self-report surveys have collected data about weapons in school. This record review study considers characteristics of 47 adolescents adjudicated for carrying weapons at school and provides a descriptive analysis against a comparison group of 37 juveniles with other offenses. Demographics, weapon type, legal history, prior school…

7 CFR 501.12 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 501.12 Section 501.12... OF AGRICULTURE CONDUCT ON U.S. MEAT ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTER, CLAY CENTER, NEBRASKA § 501.12 Weapons... arrows, darts, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except as...

7 CFR 501.12 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 501.12 Section 501.12... OF AGRICULTURE CONDUCT ON U.S. MEAT ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTER, CLAY CENTER, NEBRASKA § 501.12 Weapons... arrows, darts, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except as...

31 CFR 700.11 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Weapons and explosives. 700.11 Section... ENFORCEMENT TRAINING CENTER (FLETC) BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS § 700.11 Weapons and explosives. No person, while on the property, shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or...

36 CFR 504.14 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Weapons and explosives. 504... GOVERNING SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS § 504.14 Weapons and explosives. No person while on the premises shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or...

49 CFR 1544.219 - Carriage of accessible weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 9 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Carriage of accessible weapons. 1544.219 Section...: AIR CARRIERS AND COMMERCIAL OPERATORS Operations § 1544.219 Carriage of accessible weapons. (a... weapons, do not apply to a law enforcement officer (LEO) aboard a flight for which screening is required...

49 CFR 1544.219 - Carriage of accessible weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 9 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Carriage of accessible weapons. 1544.219 Section...: AIR CARRIERS AND COMMERCIAL OPERATORS Operations § 1544.219 Carriage of accessible weapons. (a... weapons, do not apply to a law enforcement officer (LEO) aboard a flight for which screening is required...

36 CFR 520.15 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Weapons and explosives. 520... Weapons and explosives. No person while on the premises shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except for official purposes, nor shall any person...

27 CFR 478.133 - Records of transactions in semiautomatic assault weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... semiautomatic assault weapons. 478.133 Section 478.133 Alcohol, Tobacco Products, and Firearms BUREAU OF ALCOHOL... AMMUNITION Records § 478.133 Records of transactions in semiautomatic assault weapons. The evidence specified in § 478.40(c), relating to transactions in semiautomatic assault weapons, shall be retained in the...

7 CFR 503.13 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 503.13 Section 503.13... OF AGRICULTURE CONDUCT ON PLUM ISLAND ANIMAL DISEASE CENTER § 503.13 Weapons and explosives. No person while in or on the PIADC shall carry firearms or other dangerous or deadly weapons or explosives...

7 CFR 500.12 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 500.12 Section 500.12... OF AGRICULTURE NATIONAL ARBORETUM Conduct on U.S. National Arboreturm Property § 500.12 Weapons and... weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except for authorized official purposes. (b) No person...

15 CFR 265.39 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 265.39 Section..., GAITHERSBURG, MARYLAND, AND BOULDER AND FORT COLLINS, COLORADO Buildings and Grounds § 265.39 Weapons and... dangerous or deadly weapons or materials, or explosives, either openly or concealed, without the written...

7 CFR 503.13 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 503.13 Section 503.13... OF AGRICULTURE CONDUCT ON PLUM ISLAND ANIMAL DISEASE CENTER § 503.13 Weapons and explosives. No person while in or on the PIADC shall carry firearms or other dangerous or deadly weapons or explosives...

36 CFR 504.14 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Weapons and explosives. 504... GOVERNING SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS § 504.14 Weapons and explosives. No person while on the premises shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or...

7 CFR 501.12 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 501.12 Section 501.12... OF AGRICULTURE CONDUCT ON U.S. MEAT ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTER, CLAY CENTER, NEBRASKA § 501.12 Weapons... arrows, darts, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except as...

46 CFR 386.23 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 8 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Weapons and explosives. 386.23 Section 386.23 Shipping... AND GROUNDS AT THE UNITED STATES MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY § 386.23 Weapons and explosives. No person shall carry or possess firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons or parts thereof, explosives or items...

7 CFR 501.12 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 501.12 Section 501.12... OF AGRICULTURE CONDUCT ON U.S. MEAT ANIMAL RESEARCH CENTER, CLAY CENTER, NEBRASKA § 501.12 Weapons... arrows, darts, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except as...

31 CFR 91.13 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance: Treasury 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Weapons and explosives. 91.13 Section... GROUNDS § 91.13 Weapons and explosives. No person while on the property shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except for official purposes. ...

46 CFR 386.23 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 8 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Weapons and explosives. 386.23 Section 386.23 Shipping... AND GROUNDS AT THE UNITED STATES MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY § 386.23 Weapons and explosives. No person shall carry or possess firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons or parts thereof, explosives or items...

31 CFR 0.215 - Possession of weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance: Treasury 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Possession of weapons and explosives... OF THE TREASURY EMPLOYEE RULES OF CONDUCT Rules of Conduct § 0.215 Possession of weapons and explosives. (a) Employees shall not possess firearms, explosives, or other dangerous or deadly weapons...

27 CFR 478.133 - Records of transactions in semiautomatic assault weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... semiautomatic assault weapons. 478.133 Section 478.133 Alcohol, Tobacco Products, and Firearms BUREAU OF ALCOHOL... AMMUNITION Records § 478.133 Records of transactions in semiautomatic assault weapons. The evidence specified in § 478.40(c), relating to transactions in semiautomatic assault weapons, shall be retained in the...

49 CFR 1544.219 - Carriage of accessible weapons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 9 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Carriage of accessible weapons. 1544.219 Section...: AIR CARRIERS AND COMMERCIAL OPERATORS Operations § 1544.219 Carriage of accessible weapons. (a... weapons, do not apply to a law enforcement officer (LEO) aboard a flight for which screening is required...

7 CFR 502.13 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 502.13 Section 502.13....13 Weapons and explosives. No person while in or on BARC property shall carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed, except as officially authorized for...

15 CFR 265.39 - Weapons and explosives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Weapons and explosives. 265.39 Section..., GAITHERSBURG, MARYLAND, AND BOULDER AND FORT COLLINS, COLORADO Buildings and Grounds § 265.39 Weapons and... dangerous or deadly weapons or materials, or explosives, either openly or concealed, without the written...