The construction of a highly transportable laser ranging station
Abstract
The technology of the transportable Laser Ranging Station (TLRS) used in crustal dynamics studies was examined. The TLRS used a single photoelectron beam of limited energy density returned from the Laser Geodynamic Satellite (LAGEOS). Calibration was accomplished by the diversion of a small portion of the outgoing beam attenuated to the same level as the satellite return. Timing for the system was based on a self calibrating Ortec TD811, 100 picosec time interval device. The system was contained in a modified, single chassis recreational vehicle that allowed rapid deployment. The TLRS system was only airmobile on the largest transport aircraft. A 30 cm simple plano/concave transfer lens telescope aided in beam direction. The TLRS system fulfills the need for an accurate method of obtaining range measurements to the LAGEOS satellite incorporated in a mobile, air transportable, and economical configuration.
- Publication:
-
Texas Univ., Austin Report
- Pub Date:
- November 1980
- Bibcode:
- 1980uta..rept......
- Keywords:
-
- Geodynamics;
- Laser Range Finders;
- Portable Equipment;
- Atomic Clocks;
- Calibrating;
- Computer Programs;
- Cross Correlation;
- Image Enhancement;
- Lageos (Satellite);
- Laser Damage;
- Mirrors;
- Optical Filters;
- Safety Management;
- Target Recognition;
- Telescopes;
- Trailers;
- Yag Lasers;
- Lasers and Masers