Mr. Diego F. Pierrottet Profile

Diego F. Pierrottet

President at Coherent Applications Inc

SPIE Involvement:

Author

Publications (32)

Proceedings Article | 12 September 2021 Presentation

Performance of Doppler lidar velocity and range sensor operating in highly dynamic environments

Farzin Amzajerdian, Diego Pierrottet, Aram Gragossian, Glenn Hines, Bruce Barnes, Lance Proctor, Nathan Dostart

Proceedings Volume 11866, 118660X (2021) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2600348

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Doppler effect, Sensors, Environmental sensing, Velocity measurements, Robotics, Global Positioning System, Radar, Motion measurement, Modulation

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Proceedings Article | 13 March 2019 Presentation

Development of a fiber-based Doppler LiDAR sensor for autonomous vehicles (Conference Presentation)

Farzin Amzajerdian, Diego Pierrottet, Glenn Hines, Bruce Barnes, Aram Gragossian, Mitchell Davis, Tak-kwong Ng, Alexander Scammell, Adam Ben Shabat, Larry Petway, John Carson

Proceedings Volume 10897, 108970Q (2019) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2508905

KEYWORDS: Doppler effect, LIDAR, Sensors, Fiber optics sensors, Unmanned vehicles, Velocity measurements, Global Positioning System, Robotics, Solar system, Modulation

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Proceedings Article | 11 January 2018 Open Access

Development of LIDAR sensor systems for autonomous safe landing on planetary bodies

F. Amzajerdian, D. Pierrottet, L. Petway, M. Vanek

Proceedings Volume 10565, 105655A (2018) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2309271

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Sensors, Doppler effect, Algorithm development, Astronomical imaging, 3D image processing, Receivers, Signal processing, Velocimetry, Imaging systems

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Proceedings Article | 20 November 2017 Open Access

Development of lidar sensor systems for autonomous safe landing on planetary bodies

F. Amzajerdian, D. Pierrottet, L. Petway, M. Vanek

Proceedings Volume 10565, 105650M (2017) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2309116

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Proceedings Article | 5 May 2017 Presentation + Paper

Demonstration of coherent Doppler lidar for navigation in GPS-denied environments

Farzin Amzajerdian, Glenn Hines, Diego Pierrottet, Bruce Barnes, Larry Petway, John Carson

Proceedings Volume 10191, 1019102 (2017) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2266972

KEYWORDS: Radar, Lenses, Modulation, LIDAR, Doppler effect, Sensors, Global Positioning System, Velocity measurements, Navigation systems, Control systems, Remote sensing, Robotics

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Proceedings Article | 19 May 2015 Paper

Imaging flash LIDAR for safe landing on solar system bodies and spacecraft rendezvous and docking

Farzin Amzajerdian, Vincent Roback, Alexander Bulyshev, Paul Brewster, William Carrion, Diego Pierrottet, Glenn Hines, Larry Petway, Bruce Barnes, Anna Noe

Proceedings Volume 9465, 946502 (2015) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2178410

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Sensors, Space operations, Doppler effect, Solar system, Mars, Imaging systems, 3D image processing, Navigation systems, Algorithm development

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Proceedings Article | 9 June 2014 Paper

High-fidelity flash lidar model development

Glenn Hines, Diego Pierrottet, Farzin Amzajerdian

Proceedings Volume 9080, 90800D (2014) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2050677

KEYWORDS: Sensors, LIDAR, Data modeling, Detection and tracking algorithms, Statistical modeling, Navigation systems, Algorithm development, Evolutionary algorithms, Monte Carlo methods, 3D image processing

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Proceedings Article | 9 June 2014 Paper

A long-distance laser altimeter for terrain relative navigation and spacecraft landing

Diego Pierrottet, Farzin Amzajerdian, Bruce Barnes

Proceedings Volume 9080, 908005 (2014) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2050481

KEYWORDS: Sensors, Signal detection, Receivers, Navigation systems, Transmitters, Pulsed laser operation, Laser development, LIDAR, Space operations, Laser applications

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Proceedings Article | 20 May 2013 Paper

Doppler lidar sensor for precision navigation in GPS-deprived environment

F. Amzajerdian, D. Pierrottet, G. Hines, L. Petway, B. Barnes

Proceedings Volume 8731, 87310G (2013) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2018359

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Doppler effect, Sensors, Navigation systems, Environmental sensing, Mars, Neodymium, Ions, Prototyping, Signal processing

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Proceedings Article | 20 August 2011 Paper

Lidar systems for precision navigation and safe landing on planetary bodies

Farzin Amzajerdian, Diego Pierrottet, Larry Petway, Glenn Hines, Vincent Roback

Proceedings Volume 8192, 819202 (2011) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.904062

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Sensors, Doppler effect, Navigation systems, Readout integrated circuits, Algorithm development, Receivers, Space operations, Image processing, Super resolution

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Proceedings Article | 23 May 2011 Paper

Navigation Doppler lidar sensor for precision altitude and vector velocity measurements: flight test results

Diego Pierrottet, Farzin Amzajerdian, Larry Petway, Bruce Barnes, George Lockard, Glenn Hines

Proceedings Volume 8044, 80440S (2011) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.886826

KEYWORDS: Sensors, Velocity measurements, Doppler effect, LIDAR, Navigation systems, Signal processing, Receivers, Global Positioning System, Signal to noise ratio, Control systems

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Proceedings Article | 8 February 2011 Paper

A super-resolution algorithm for enhancement of flash lidar data

Alexander Bulyshev, Michael Vanek, Farzin Amzajerdian, Diego Pierrottet, Glenn Hines, Robert Reisse

Proceedings Volume 7873, 78730F (2011) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.876283

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Super resolution, Algorithm development, Spatial resolution, Computer simulations, Sensors, Image resolution, Space operations, Image registration, Electromagnetic simulation

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Proceedings Article | 7 May 2010 Paper

Computational experiments on super-resolution enhancement of flash lidar data

Alexander Bulyshev, Glenn Hines, Michael Vanek, Farzin Amzajerdian, Robert Reisee, Diego Pierrottet

Proceedings Volume 7684, 76840O (2010) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.853194

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Space operations, Sensors, Detection and tracking algorithms, Data modeling, Super resolution, Image processing, 3D image processing, Image resolution, Signal processing

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In this paper a new image processing technique for flash LIDAR data is presented as a potential tool to enable safe and precise spacecraft landings in future robotic or crewed lunar and planetary missions. Flash LIDARs can generate, in real-time, range data that can be interpreted as a 3-dimensional (3-D) image and transformed into a corresponding digital elevation map (DEM). The NASA Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance (ALHAT) project is capitalizing on this new technology by developing, testing and analyzing flash LIDARs to detect hazardous terrain features such as craters, rocks, and slopes during the descent phase of spacecraft landings. Using a flash LIDAR for this application looks very promising, however through theoretical and simulation analysis the ALHAT team has determined that a single frame, or mosaic, of flash LIDAR data may not be sufficient to build a landing site DEM with acceptable spatial resolution, precision, size, or for a mosaic, in time, to meet current system requirements. One way to overcome this potential limitation is by enhancing the flash LIDAR output images. We propose a new super-resolution algorithm applicable to flash LIDAR range data that will create a DEM with sufficient accuracy, precision and size to meet current ALHAT requirements. The performance of our super-resolution algorithm is analyzed by processing data generated during a series of simulation runs by a high fidelity model of a flash LIDAR imaging a high resolution synthetic lunar elevation map. The flash LIDAR model is attached to a simulated spacecraft by a gimbal that points the LIDAR to a target landing site. For each simulation run, a sequence of flash LIDAR frames is recorded and processed as the spacecraft descends toward the landing site. Each run has a different trajectory profile with varying LIDAR look angles of the terrain. We process the output LIDAR frames using our SR algorithm and the results show that the achieved level of accuracy and precision of the SR generated landing site DEM is more than adequate for detecting hazardous terrain features and identifying safe areas.

Proceedings Article | 23 January 2010 Paper

Utilization of 3D imaging flash lidar technology for autonomous safe landing on planetary bodies

Farzin Amzajerdian, Michael Vanek, Larry Petway, Diego Pierrottet, George Busch, Alexander Bulyshev

Proceedings Volume 7608, 760828 (2010) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.843324

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Sensors, Transmitters, Algorithm development, 3D image processing, Receivers, Staring arrays, Calibration, Doppler effect, Signal processing

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Proceedings Article | 7 May 2009 Paper

Processing of three-dimensional flash lidar terrain images generating from an airborne platform

Alexander Bulyshev, Diego Pierrottet, Farzin Amzajerdian, George Busch, Michael Vanek, Robert Reisse

Proceedings Volume 7329, 73290I (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.821855

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Digital filtering, Image filtering, Image processing, 3D image processing, Interference (communication), Clocks, Cameras, Analytical research, Pulsed laser operation

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Proceedings Article | 7 May 2009 Paper

Flight test performance of a high precision navigation Doppler lidar

Diego Pierrottet, Farzin Amzajerdian, Larry Petway, Bruce Barnes, George Lockard

Proceedings Volume 7323, 732311 (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.821902

KEYWORDS: LIDAR, Global Positioning System, Doppler effect, Sensors, Velocity measurements, Signal to noise ratio, Modulation, Receivers, Signal processing

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Proceedings Article | 2 May 2009 Paper

High-speed laser wavelength agility, stabilization, and locking for heterodyne detection differential scatter lidar

Diego Pierrottet, George Busch, Bruce Barnes, Thedric Jones, Raphael Moon

Proceedings Volume 7323, 73230U (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.821975

KEYWORDS: Acoustics, Laser stabilization, LIDAR, Heterodyning, Bragg cells, Aerosols, Receivers, Pulsed laser operation, Beam controllers, Laser resonators

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Proceedings Article | 4 May 2007 Paper

Characterization of 3-D imaging lidar for hazard avoidance and autonomous landing on the Moon

Diego Pierrottet, Farzin Amzajerdian, Byron Meadows, Robert Estes, Anna Noe

Proceedings Volume 6550, 655008 (2007) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.724768

KEYWORDS: Sensors, LIDAR, Signal to noise ratio, Transmitters, Staring arrays, 3D image processing, 3D modeling, Reflectivity, Receivers, Stereoscopy

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Proceedings Article | 27 February 2004 Paper

Comparison of radiometric and chemical detection sensitivities for heterodyne and direct detection DIAL

Daniel Senft, Diego Pierrottet

Proceedings Volume 5268, (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.518593

KEYWORDS: Heterodyning, Receivers, Signal to noise ratio, Absorption, Signal detection, Chemical detection, Oscillators, Transmitters, Bragg cells, Speckle

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Proceedings Article | 15 August 2003 Paper

Comparison of radiometric and chemical detection sensitivities for heterodyne and direct detection DIAL

Daniel Senft, Diego Pierrottet

Proceedings Volume 5085, (2003) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.487326

KEYWORDS: Heterodyning, Receivers, Absorption, Signal to noise ratio, Chemical detection, Oscillators, Bragg cells, Speckle, Transmitters, Telescopes

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Proceedings Article | 24 June 2002 Paper

Development of a high-speed wavelength-agile CO2 local oscillator for heterodyne DIAL measurements

Daniel Senft, Diego Pierrottet

Proceedings Volume 4722, (2002) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.472264

KEYWORDS: Heterodyning, Oscillators, Absorption, Bragg cells, Receivers, LIDAR, Chemical detection, Carbon dioxide, Analytical research, Transmitters

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A high repetition rate, wavelength agile CO₂ laser has been developed at the Air Force Research Laboratory for use as a local oscillator in a heterodyne detection receiver. Fats wavelength selection is required for measurements of airborne chemical vapors using the differential absorption lidar (DIAL) technique. Acousto-optic modulator are used to tune between different wavelengths at high speeds without the need for moving mechanical parts. Other advantages obtained by the use of acousto-optic modulators are laser output power control per wavelength and rugged packaging for field applications. The local oscillator design is described, and the results from laboratory DIAL measurements are presented. The coherent remote optical sensor system is an internal research project being conducted by the Air Force Research Laboratory Directed Energy Directorate, Active Remote Sensing Branch. The objective of the project is to develop a new long-range standoff spectral sensor that takes advantage of the enhanced performance capabilities coherent detection can provide. Emphasis of the development is on a low cost, compact, and rugged active sensor exclusively designed for heterodyne detection using the differential absorption lidar technique. State of the art technologies in waveguide laser construction and acousto- optics make feasible the next generation of lasers capable of supporting coherent lidar system requirements. Issues addressed as part of the development include optoelectronic engineering of a low cost rugged system, and fast data throughput for real time chemical concentration measurements. All hardware used in this sensor are off-the- shelf items, so only minor hardware modifications were required for the system as it stands. This paper describes a high-speed heterodyne detection CO₂ DIAL system that employs a wavelength agile, acousto-optically tuned local oscillator in the receiver. Sample experimental data collected in a controlled environment are presented as well. Chemical detection using 12 wavelengths at 200 pulses per second has been demonstrated. Initial progress on experiments to make a direct, simultaneous comparison of heterodyne and direct detection DIAL systems will also be described.

Proceedings Article | 9 January 2002 Paper

Doppler spectral scanning differential absorption lidar

Bradley Jost, Daniel Senft, Diego Pierrottet, Mark Kovacs, Joe Cardani

Proceedings Volume 4484, (2002) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.452771

KEYWORDS: Doppler effect, Satellites, Decision support systems, Absorption, LIDAR, Retroreflectors, Atmospheric monitoring, Gas lasers, Heterodyning, Earth's atmosphere

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Proceedings Article | 28 July 2000 Paper

CO2 coherent differential absorption lidar

Diego Pierrottet, Daniel Senft

Proceedings Volume 4036, (2000) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.394075

KEYWORDS: Heterodyning, Absorption, Receivers, Sensors, LIDAR, Chemical detection, Oscillators, Carbon dioxide, Signal detection, Bragg cells

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Proceedings Article | 30 November 1999 Paper

Chemical detection results from ground testing of an airborne CO2 differential absorption lidar system

Daniel Senft, Marsha Fox, Carla Hamilton, Dale Richter, N. Higdon, Brian Kelly, Robert Babnick, Diego Pierrottet

Proceedings Volume 3855, (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.371273

KEYWORDS: Absorption, Receivers, Heterodyning, Carbon dioxide lasers, Sensors, Chemical analysis, LIDAR, Chemical detection, Carbon dioxide, Control systems

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Proceedings Article | 22 October 1999 Paper

Ground test results and analysis advancements for the AFRL airborne CO2 DIAL system

Daniel Senft, Marsha Fox, Carla Hamilton, Dale Richter, N. Higdon, Brian Kelly, Robert Babnick, Diego Pierrottet

Proceedings Volume 3757, (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.366425

KEYWORDS: Absorption, Receivers, Chemical analysis, Sensors, Carbon dioxide lasers, LIDAR, Analytical research, Heterodyning, Control systems, Carbon dioxide

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Proceedings Article | 28 May 1999 Paper

Coherent remote optical sensor system overview

Diego Pierrottet, Christopher Washer, Daniel Senft

Proceedings Volume 3707, (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.351343

KEYWORDS: Oscillators, Receivers, Bragg cells, Sensors, LIDAR, Spectral resolution, Heterodyning, Carbon dioxide lasers, Optical sensors, Waveguides

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Proceedings Article | 3 November 1998 Paper

Development and testing of a long-range airborne CO2 DIAL chemical detection system

N. Higdon, Daniel Senft, Marsha Fox, Carla Hamilton, Brian Kelly, James Dowling, Diego Pierrottet, David Dean, Dale Richter, Ronald Bousek

Proceedings Volume 3433, (1998) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.330237

KEYWORDS: Absorption, Sensors, Receivers, Cameras, LIDAR, Telescopes, Control systems, Data acquisition, Carbon dioxide, Diagnostics

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Proceedings Article | 15 January 1998 Paper

Satellite feature reconstruction using reflective tomography: field results

Charles Matson, Donald Holland, Diego Pierrottet, Donald Ruffatto, Stanley Czyzak, Debora Mosley

Proceedings Volume 3219, (1998) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.298050

KEYWORDS: Satellites, Reflectivity, Tomography, Imaging systems, Surveillance, Heterodyning, LIDAR, Laser systems engineering, Radar imaging, Satellite imaging

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Proceedings Article | 6 January 1997 Paper

Design and performance simulations for an airborne DIAL system for long-range remote sensing applications

James Dowling, Brian Kelly, John Gonglewski, Marsha Fox, Michael Shilko, N. Higdon, Ronald Highland, Daniel Senft, David Dean, John Blackburn, Diego Pierrottet

Proceedings Volume 2956, (1997) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.263157

KEYWORDS: Sensors, Receivers, Mirrors, Pulsed laser operation, Cameras, Signal to noise ratio, Telescopes, Carbon dioxide lasers, Device simulation, Optical alignment

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Proceedings Article | 15 December 1995 Paper

Laser long-range remote-sensing program experimental results

Ronald Highland, Michael Shilko, Marsha Fox, John Gonglewski, Stanley Czyzak, James Dowling, Brian Kelly, Diego Pierrottet, Donald Ruffatto, Sharon Loando, Chris Matsuura, Daniel Senft, Lyle Finkner, Joe Rae, Jonathan Gallegos

Proceedings Volume 2580, (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.228489

KEYWORDS: Remote sensing, Atmospheric laser remote sensing, Atmospheric optics, Optical amplifiers, Sensors, Lawrencium, Transceivers, Meteorology, Atmospheric modeling, Heterodyning

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