Laser safety research and modeling for high-energy laser systems

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

doi:10.1117/12.472366

25 June 2002 Laser safety research and modeling for high-energy laser systems

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

Proceedings Volume 4724, Laser Weapons Technology III; (2002) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.472366
Event: AeroSense 2002, 2002, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

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.

Citation Download Citation

Peter Alan Smith, Cecilia I. Montes de Oca, Paul K. Kennedy, and Kenneth S. Keppler "Laser safety research and modeling for high-energy laser systems", Proc. SPIE 4724, Laser Weapons Technology III, (25 June 2002); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.472366

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