Tunable line-narrowed semiconductor laser for laser radar applications

High performance distance and velocity measurement systems are required to meet the demands of various aerospace systems. These systems include aircraft guidance and control, threat/hazard detection and avoidance, and control of large space structures. High performance measurement systems also are required in the manufacturing, control, and health ??monitoring of system components. In this paper, the development of a tunable, line-narrowed semiconductor laser for use in high precision range measurement systems will be discussed.