Abstract: A laser beam is frequency shifted for use in a laser radar ranging system driving a single optical modulator with multiple drivers to produce several frequency shifted drive frequencies. The shifted beam is transmitted to and from a target via an afocal lens. The return reflected beam, which includes phase shifted information is mixed in a detector with the local oscillator frequency to remove the local oscillator frequency. The electrical output from the detector is filtered by bandpass filters and phase detected in a signal processor to obtain range information.

Abstract: A stabilized local oscillator frequency for heterodyne laser sensors comped of an acousto-optic crystal which provides a constant frequency offset f.sub.1, to a portion of laser transmitter power at frequency f.sub.0, for injection locking a separate local oscillator connected to a detector which simultaneously mixes f.sub.1 with the return signal f.sub.0 from a target. The detector outputs the difference frequency between f.sub.0 -f.sub.1 which is processed for the desired information. Proper local oscillator tuning is maintained through the use of a piezo-electric translator regulating the axial length of the local oscillator.

Abstract: A device for supporting a laser output mirror and allowing easy adjustment f the mirror, including a flexible ring carrying the mirror. The ring is supported by a part secured to the laser housing. The part also carries a plate with adjusting screws therethrough and bearing on the ring, the screws being inclined with respect to the optical axis of the housing. Thus, one is able to adjust the adjusting screws without exposing one's hands to the laser beam.

Abstract: The invention provides a vibration sensor with a platform mounted Bragg c frequency shifter and heterodyne detection system, wherein the reference beam is modulated with the component of platform vibration normal to the sensing beam, such that a similar modulation of the sensing beam is cancelled by the heterodyning process.

Abstract: A novel design for an RF pumped gas laser is provided by spiralling an RF in lead transmission line around a ceramic gas container. The pitch of the spiral and spacing between the leads of the transmission line are chosen to produce currents parallel to the axis of the spiral to provide more efficient energy transfer modes between the pump and the lasing gas.

Abstract: A gas laser is provided with elongated electrodes having apertures therein. he electrodes provide a transmission line for an HF electromagnetic pump which ionizes the gas, and the apertures are distributed and offset to provide passageways for efficient interaction between the hot ionized gas and a replenishing supply of cooled gas.

Abstract: A far-infrared laser structure is provided wherein a uniform longitudinal ectric field mode is provided for a radio frequency pump by means of a set of fully or near-fully circular ring shaped electrodes.

Abstract: An array of optical frequency-sensitive elements such as diffraction grats or interference filters are arranged in a row, and the optical path of the laser cavity can be directed to include one of these elements. A partitioned optical prism consisting of a triangular portion and one or more paralleogramatic portions are used to direct the path. Between the portions are piezoelectric elements which, when energized, expand to provide an air gap between the portions and to allow total reflection of an optical ray at the surface of the prism next to the gap.

Abstract: An acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF), instead of being used for its intended use of frequency or wavelength tuning a laser from within its resonant cavity, is used outside the laser cavity to amplitude modulate the output beam of the laser. This is accomplished by directing the laser output beam into the AOTF and applying an A.C. voltage to a piezo-electric transducer which is a part of the AOTF.