Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel approach for determining range to a target using the inelastic scattering of light from the target and/or inelastic scattering of light from molecules between the light emitting source and the target. This is a useful approach in that the range measurement is independent of the retroreflectivity or absorptivity of the target. Using this methodology allows optical detection and rangefinding of targets which by intention or otherwise cannot be detected using conventional LIDAR rangefinding.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel approach for optimizing detection performance of a standoff optical detection system using the inelastic scattering of light from the target and/or inelastic scattering of light from molecules between the light emitting source and the target. This is a useful approach primarily for systems which already employ a pulsed light source, a detector, and a timing mechanism but whose primary function is not the detection of range. Using this methodology removes the need to deploy a secondary device to find range or augments the ability of any included range finder to widen the overall system operating envelope, reliability, and performance.