Miniature Multiple-Pulse Q-Switched Ruby Laser Holocamera For Aerosol Analysis

A miniature holocamera is described which utilizes cantilever beam vibrations of a ruby rod as a Q-switch mechanism. Up to three Q-switched pulses are obtained per pumping cycle. Triple-pulsed holograms provide information from which particle sizes, velocities, and accelerations are directly measured. The holographic record provides an image of a volume equal to a 35 mm still frame area in cross section and approximately 15 cm deep. Hand carrying ease of portability makes this camera especially convenient to move from site to site for short-term measurements.