ATMOSPHERIC LASER DOPPLER VELOCIMETRY - AN OVERVIEW

The application of Laser Doppler Velocimeters (LDVs) to the measurement of atmospheric processes has produced information not previously available. This information provides a better understanding of naturally and artificially induced phenomena, leading to varied applications. Such applications included the measurement of wind profiles, dust devils, aircraft wake vortices, and wind shear. Future applications include a measurement program now underway that will permit mapping of severe storm flow fields, a hardware definition study for a satellite-borne system that will allow for wind measurement on a global basis, and a flight program to assess a compact true air speed measurement system. This paper provides sufficient information to assess the status of research, development, and applications of atmospheric LDV systems. An overview of the last thirteen years is presented, with the work grouped into several general areas, and some of the major results summarized. Since the majority of the work in this area has been performed with CO//2 systems, the principles of operation of typical pulsed and cw systems are presented. An extensive bibliography is provided which is broken down into annual periods starting with 1961.