APPLICATION OF LASER IN AERONAUTICS

Slavica Ristić

Abstract

The short survey of laser theoretical bases is given for better understanding the main properties of laser light. The historical development and a review of laser types for commercial and military application are presented. The greatest attention is paid to the application of lasers in aeronautics. The paper gives the principles of laser systems, including block diagram analyses and photos for laser altimeters, laser rangefinders, laser gyroscopes, laser navigation systems, laser anemometers, laser warning systems, laser topography scanning and photographing systems, target designators, “anti-sensor" lasers and laser self-protection systems for fighter aircraft. The different types of laser weapons used in aeronautics are described as well as, laser-guided bombs, laser-guided projectiles and missiles and airborne laser system for destroying ballistic missiles in their boost phase. The tendencies of laser development for space application, for rocket engines, laser-propelled vehicles and dubbed "Lightcraft" are briefly presented. The following issues are also discussed: laser in aircraft industries, lasers in meteorology, laser safety and protection and laser communications since they are directly connected with aeronautics.

Key words : laser, application in aeronautics, laser guidance, laser weapons, laser-guided bomb, laser rangefinder, laser guro.