Spaceborne laser filamentation: A new remote sensing tool for atmospheric spectroscopy?

  • I. Dicaire
  • , V. Jukna
  • , C. Praz
  • , C. Milian
  • , L. Summerer
  • , A. Couairon

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This paper presents the first proof-of-concept of space-borne laser filamentation for atmospheric remote sensing. Our results indicate that a filament can form at an altitude of 7 km associated with the generation of a white-light continuum resulting from strong pulse splitting and beam collapse. The theoretical model includes a realistic representation of the stratified atmosphere and accounts for multi-species ionisation and the dependence of air density upon the molecule type and altitude profile. A preliminary assessment of the general payload parameters is also performed for a platform orbiting at a 400-km altitude. We find that operating conditions for the proposed space-borne white-light lidar concept are already available with current ground-based mobile laser technology and within reach of future space laser systems.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication66th International Astronautical Congress 2015, IAC 2015
Subtitle of host publicationSpace - The Gateway for Mankind's Future
PublisherInternational Astronautical Federation, IAF
Pages2994-3001
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9781510818934
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2015
Event66th International Astronautical Congress 2015: Space - The Gateway for Mankind's Future, IAC 2015 - Jerusalem, Israel
Duration: 12 Oct 201516 Oct 2015

Publication series

NameProceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC
Volume4
ISSN (Print)0074-1795

Conference

Conference66th International Astronautical Congress 2015: Space - The Gateway for Mankind's Future, IAC 2015
Country/TerritoryIsrael
CityJerusalem
Period12/10/1516/10/15

Keywords

  • Femtosecond lasers
  • Lidar missions
  • Nonlinear optics
  • Remote sensing
  • White-light lidar

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