Long-range standoff IED detection using mobile glass generated THz waves
Project Award Date: 10-01-2008
Description
The primary objective of this project is to develop an innovative long-range standoff
detection technique for locating mobile improvised explosive devices (IliDs). This
proposed method uses the locally generated THz waves via the four-wave mixing process
in vehicle window glasses. This not only eliminates the heavy propagation losses of the
THz wave but also significantly increases the THz generation efficiency as compared
with the THz generation in ambient air. The same window glass is also used to detect the
THz waves using coherent THz detection technique.
ITTC will focus on the design of a high power optical telescope system, which will be used for THz wave collimation, focusing, and detection. We will also provide technical support on the design and development of the THz coherent detection system to achieve high detection sensitivity. We have previously demonstrated a coherent laser radar (Lidar) system using coherent homodyne detection. The current work will leverage our knowledge and experience in Lidar system design and development, but the focus will be on the terahertz regime and high optical power handling. Specific topics of this work include: lidar system focusing optics, optical power delivery, coherent-detection system algorithm and architecture, and electro-optic signal processing.
In collaboration with Penn State University
Investigators
Faculty Investigator(s): Ronqing Hui (PI)
Project Sponsors
Primary Sponsor(s): Office of Naval Research
