Government/Science Applications

1
Contaminant Monitor LaserOpotek, Inc., Carlsbad
California
Innovation A laser transmitter for remote
sensing of water vapor in the upper atmosphere.
Accomplishments OPOTEK, Inc., developed a
solid-state laser transmitter tuned to a specific
wavelength with an extremely narrow spectral
linewidth. The Optical Parametric Oscillator
(OPO) - Converts a fixed wavelength laser into a
tunable source. - Is seeded by a narrow-line
diode laser, tuned to the absorption lines of
water vapor. - Is compact, easy-to-operate,
all-solid-state - Beam is continuously tunable
over a limited spectral range, with an
extremely high optical resolution - Is
hermetically sealed to protect the crystals and
other optical elements from moisture and
particulate contamination - Has closed-loop
computer control which includes a spectrograph
with a CCD array to fully automate the tuning
and wavelength scanning processes and provide
precise wavelength and pulse-energy
data. Commercialization The product developed
is OPOTEK Finesse, an extremely narrow line,
solid-state single longitudinal mode tunable
laser system. OPOTEK was the first to
introduce a broadband visible OPO as a
commercial product in the USA. Estimated
market for for scientific lasers is on the order
of 150 million 70 million of which are
tunable lasers To date two units like the one
developed for NASA, plus a modified version
sold for a total cost of 460,000. One full
time position added.
OPOTEK, Inc Solid State Laser Transmitter, Finesse
Government/Science Applications NASA airborne
laser systems. DEA discernment of
by-products from manufacture of illegal drugs
DoD surveillance systems for various gases,
chemical warfare, etc.
Points of Contact NASA LaRC Dr. Edward V.
Browell 757-864-1273 OPOTEK Eli Margalith,
760-929-0770 opotek_at_opotek.com 1993 SBIR Phase
II NAS1-2041 SS _____