Lasers for Mapping and Imaging

OVERVIEW OF MAPPING & IMAGING

Laser mapping and imaging are one of the fastest growing segments of the laser market.  This is heavily driven by LiDAR and its use in both the military targeting systems and for autonomous vehicles.   The high frequency of laser light when compared to radio waves offers far superior bandwidth and as a result, resolution when compared to traditional radar.  As laser technology advances, it is becoming far easier to make compact high-efficiency laser sources which have low power consumption making them ideal for integration into autonomous vehicles.  Pulsed infrared lasers are also becoming more and more popular as light sources for night vision security cameras.   This technology enables both invisible illumination and time-gating to be able to resolve distance better, detect movement, and create three-dimensional images.   Except for bathymetry (underwater mapping), the lasers used in mapping and imaging applications are all in the infrared for several reasons.  First, as in most defense applications, it is always preferable to use non-visible excitation sources.  Secondly, there are atmospheric absorption minima in the near infrared region, which allow for longer transmission and reduced scintillation.  Lastly, there are bands in the near-infrared region of the spectrum, which are considered “eye-safe,” making it safer to transmit the laser in populated environments.  Pulsed and continuous wave (CW) lasers are used for mapping and imaging, but it is important to point out that the CW lasers are typically frequency modulated.  This means that single frequency lasers such as fiber lasers are needed for most CW laser imaging and mapping applications. 

To learn more about the various laser mapping & imaging applications click on any of the applications listed below, or talk to a knowledgeable Product Manager today by calling 1-636-272-7222, or Contact Us here.