Optical Heterodyne Detection Of Incoherent Sources: Current Status And Future Applications

Stephen R. King

doi:10.1117/12.954441

20 January 1976 Optical Heterodyne Detection Of Incoherent Sources: Current Status And Future Applications

Stephen R. King

Proceedings Volume 0062, Modern Utilization of Infrared Technology I; (1976) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.954441
Event: 19th Annual Technical Symposium, 1975, San Diego, United States

Abstract

This paper presents a brief history of optical heterodyne detection of incoherent sources followed by a discussion of the current status of the field as well as possible future applications. Attributes of optical heterodyne detection such as high spectral resolution (λ/Δλ > 10⁶), high sensitivity (≈10^-19 W/Hz), and preservation of the signal phase will be discussed. Current applications of optical heterodyne detection of incoherent sources include stellar interferometry, solar radiometry, and the measurement of atmospheric absorption of laser radiation. Each of these experiments will be described, particularly the absorption measurements along the earth-space path for HF, DF, and CO₂ lasers. Experimental data will be presented to verify the usefulness of these techniques as well as to compare their performance against theoretical predictions. Possible future applications of optical heterodyne detection of incoherent sources will be discussed including remote detection, monitoring, and tracking of atmospheric pollutants on a local or global scale.

Citation Download Citation

Stephen R. King "Optical Heterodyne Detection Of Incoherent Sources: Current Status And Future Applications", Proc. SPIE 0062, Modern Utilization of Infrared Technology I, (20 January 1976); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.954441

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