Project Title:

Large Aperture Holographic Optics

RALCON CORP
BOX 142
PARADISE, UTAH   84328

93-1-08.09-4623

Large Aperture Holographic Optics

Abstract:

Large aperture reflection holographic optics are proposed for use
in LIDAR systems to make them mechanically simpler and lighter.
Aberrations are minimized using contoured fringes calculated to
compensate for spherical aberrations and to reduce astigmatism
and coma that results from operation off axis and at a wavelength
different than the construction wavelength. Chromatic dispersion
is not a problem for laser line reception and multiple line
operation is possible by stacking the reflectors. A 16 inch
mirror for operation at 532 has been made and delivered, methods of
making the same at near IR wavelengths are discussed.

A novel master copy process is described that allows formation of
masters in the red and near IR. Copies made in the blue region in
dichromated gelatin remain well corrected and with low phase
distortion. The possibility of production in Dupont Polymer or
computer generated blazed surface phase structures are noted.
Follow on work includes the design and generation of computer
generated multiplexed metalised blazed reflectors for the Far IR
region.

NASA can benefit by obtaining a source of lightweight flyable
large aperture optics. The same devices are useful for photon buckets
and narrowband imaging of a general nature. Solar collection, laser
radar, designators, and solar laser pumping are additional
possible applications.

Scanner, Diffractive Optics, HOE, Lidar, Holographic mirror

RALCON CORP , BOX 142, PARADISE, UTAH   84328