Optical Physics & Laser Detection Systems Analytics Unit

DARAS·Units·Physics & Maths
Physics & Maths

Optical Physics & Laser Detection Systems Analytics Unit

Developing optical physics and laser-based detection systems for precision measurement, remote sensing, and threat detection.

Research Mission

The Optical Physics & Laser Detection Systems Analytics Unit develops optical physics techniques and laser-based detection systems for precision measurement, remote sensing, chemical detection, and threat identification. The unit applies laser spectroscopy, lidar, interferometry, and nonlinear optics to create detection systems of extraordinary sensitivity and specificity — providing the optical sensing capability needed for DARAS's environmental monitoring, security, and precision measurement programs.

Key Research Functions

Laser Spectroscopy

Developing laser absorption and emission spectroscopy systems for trace gas detection, chemical identification, and isotope analysis — achieving parts-per-trillion sensitivity for environmental monitoring and standoff threat detection applications.

Lidar Systems

Building lidar systems for atmospheric profiling, terrain mapping, and target ranging — developing pulsed and continuous-wave lidar architectures optimized for range, resolution, and sensitivity across diverse operational environments.

Precision Metrology

Applying optical frequency combs and interferometric techniques to precision measurement — developing optical clocks, length standards, and metrology systems that provide the measurement accuracy needed for navigation, geodesy, and fundamental physics research.

Research Capabilities

Laser absorption spectroscopy
Lidar and optical ranging systems
Optical interferometry and metrology
Nonlinear optical processes
Standoff chemical detection
Frequency comb and precision measurement

Directorate of Advanced Research & Applied Sciences

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