The new Nd-YAG Laser-Ranging System for the Satellite Observation Station at Wettzell
Abstract
The specifications for the laser tracker at Wettzell are high ranging accuracy, high range capability, blind tracking by day and night, and a high level of automation for tracking and data sampling. The present paper gives an overall view of the systems design of the instrument with consideration of the laser subsystem and the optical mechanical and electrical designs of the laser. Particular emphasis is placed on the mount and optical components (transmitting optics, receiving telescope, sighting telescope, alignment optics, etc.) and on the receiver subsystem (static crossed-field photomultiplier, post-detection gating, threshold detection, epoch timing system, etc.). The guidance and data handling system is also described.
- Publication:
-
Geodesy and Physics of the Earth
- Pub Date:
- 1977
- Bibcode:
- 1977gpe..symp..823W
- Keywords:
-
- Laser Range Finders;
- Neodymium Lasers;
- Satellite Tracking;
- Tracking Stations;
- User Requirements;
- Yag Lasers;
- Accuracy;
- Crossed Fields;
- Data Systems;
- Systems Analysis;
- Telescopes;
- Timing Devices;
- Space Communications, Spacecraft Communications, Command and Tracking