A new approach to eye-safety analysis for airborne laser systems flight test and training operations

A new method for evaluating the hazards associated with the use of airborne laser systems operating in the visible and near infra-red portions of the electromagnetic spectrum is presented in this paper. Particularly, safety issues of state-of-the-art Nd:YAG laser target designators are thoroughly investigated, in order to identify operational procedures and limitations for employment of such equipment at the test ranges during execution of both trials and training missions. Innovative procedures and algorithms are presented that allow a complete verification of laser-safety for airborne systems whilst operating at the test ranges. Finally, a PC based simulation program is described, together with some simulation results. Most of the results presented here have been developed for airborne laser target designators, but they also apply to most airborne laser systems including range finders and beam riders operating in the visible and near-infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.