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DIRECTED ENERGY PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

Abstract: 24-Systems-248

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE

Ultralight optics and photonics systems for controlling high energy laser beams

Lasers provide unique opportunities for defense, however, laser beams are rather vulnerable to the presence of phase distorting, absorptive, light scattering and reflecting media on the path of propagation. Due to low air density, large propagation distances are typically required for affecting the beam, however, conventional optical materials and components have limited capability of controlling these beams due to damage or distortions caused by high-power levels.

The next generation optics technology developed at BEAM Engineering for Advanced Measurements Co., largely in collaboration with AFRL, provides means for effectively controlling high energy laser beams with micrometer-thin films, thin enough not to be affected by nonlinear optical processes and highly transparent not to be affected by thermal effects, while capable of practically 100% diffraction efficiency. By that, these ultrathin lenses, prisms, beam shapers, diffusers, etc., provide low SWaP high speed dynamic control opportunities. Not to be confused with metasurface technology, BEAM Co.’s next generation optics is clear, with no scatter, and can have anti-reflection coatings to avoid ghost beams and straylight.

We will review capabilities of this, so-called, the 4th generation of optics for controlling high energy laser beams, presenting results on their environmental stability and radiation damage tests for both, fixed as well as agile components and systems.

References:
N. Tabirian, D. Roberts, Z. Liao, E. Ouskova, J. Sigley, A. Tabirian, J. Slagle, M. McConney, and T.J. Bunning, "Size, weight, and power breakthrough in nonmechanical beam and line-of-sight steering with geo-phase optics," Appl. Opt. 60, G154-G161 (2021)

Hall of Fame Article: N. Tabiryan, D. Roberts, Z. Liao, J-Y Hwang, M. Moran, E. Ouskova, A. Pshenichnyi, J. Sigley, A. Tabirian, R. Vergara, L. De Sio, B. Kimball, D. Steeves, J. Slagle, M.E. McConney, T.J. Bunning, "Advances in Transparent Planar Optics: Enabling Large Aperture, Ultrathin Lenses," Adv. Optical Mater. 2021, 2001692 (1-24)

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE