Infrared Diagnostic System for ABL/SBL Optical Components

This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I proposal seeks to develop an inexpensive, highly sensitive infrared diagnostic instrument that is capable of accurately determining the performance of High-Energy Laser (HEL) optical components. The newinstrumentation will be capable of rapidly determining the quality of uncooled, infrared high reflectors. The Phase I research will demonstrate the ability to employ a new, novel infrared light source with a proven spectrophotometric technique, yieldingan instrument that is capable of determining mirror performance with unparalleled precision that is commercially viable. The Phase I effort will demonstrate the technical feasibility of concepts employed as well as test the hardware to be used in theinstrument. The ability to measure and quantify critical optical parameters in high-energy infrared optics will be directly demonstrated.The proposed instrument will assist in the development and optimization of high-energy laser (HEL) optical componentsand infrared optical devices. The technology will impact government, military, and commercial sectors, providing a valuable diagnostic of thin film coating systems.