Optical Design of Laser Zoom Beam Expander at near & far Ranges for Tracked Atmospheric Target

Abstract

In this research, beam expander, BEX, is explained and designed for illuminating the remote flying target. The BEX is optically designed to be suited for Nd:YAG laser of given specifications. The BEX is modified to be zoom one to meet the conditions of preventing the receiving unit; i.e the photodetector, from getting saturated at near and far laser tracking. Decollimation could be achieved by automatic motor, which controls zoom lens of the BEX according to the required expansion ratio of beam expander.