Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy
Scientific paper
Mar 1992
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1992stin...9315425.&link_type=abstract
Unknown
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astronomy
Astronomy, Atmospheric Turbulence, Environment Effects, Laser Beams, Light Sources, Telescopes, Deformation, Distortion, Radar Beams, Scanning
Scientific paper
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory proposes to conduct a scientific project over a three to four year period, aimed at dramatically improving the quality of astronomical images obtainable by ground based telescopes. If successful, the research would demonstrate a technology for overcoming the atmospheric distortion that has traditionally limited ground-based astronomical observations, and would produce telescopic images as high in resolution as if the telescopes were located in space. The proposed project would provide an opportunity for a collaboration involving scientists from LLNL, three University of California campuses, and two major observatories. One major problem in attempting to interpret astronomical light images propagated through the atmosphere is to compensate for atmospheric turbulence. The approach for eliminating the effects of atmospheric distortion or turbulence on astronomical images is to precisely measure the effects of distortion on a single star or other constant point light source and compensate for the distortion effects by rapidly altering the shape of a deformable mirror in the observation system. For the proposed action at LLNL, the key environmental consideration is protection of pilots and passengers of aircraft that stray into the vicinity of LLNL while the laser beam is being directed toward the sky. To that end, laser operations would occur during off hours midnight to 4 a.m. and at a low frequency, 2 - 3 times per week, in addition to utilizing a Livermore area safety system based on successful safety programs developed by the Air Force and other organizations while conducting similar atmospheric research using lasers. This safety system will contain surveillance wide area, scanning and boresight static and narrow cone angle centered on the beam radars designed to detect intrusion by aircraft within the area of the laser beam, coupled with an interlock system that will shut down the beam automatically if such intrusions occur.
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