The power scaling and frequency stabilization of a high-power, injection-locked, arc-lamp-pumped Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm are discussed theoretically and experimentally. Thermal lensing and induced birefringence at high pump powers are modeled, and the effectiveness of the model for compensating thermal lensing is demonstrated with four different laser heads. Two distinct active frequency-stabilization schemes for injection-locked lasers are also compared theoretically and experimentally. These efforts yield a 24-W, linearly polarized, continuous-wave, TEM00 output with a spectral linewidth of 1.5 Hz measured by heterodyne detection.

We demonstrate a continuous-wave deuterium Raman laser that generates more than 160 mW of Stokes output power despite severe thermal effects. This output power represents nearly an order-of-magnitude increase over any previously reported continuous-wave Raman laser and is the first such system to our knowledge that uses deuterium gas as the Raman medium. The high output power is achieved through careful consideration of the electronic feedback design, frequency actuators, and pump-laser intensity noise.

We study theoretically and experimentally the field circulating in a resonant optical cavity when the phase of the incident field and the length of the cavity exhibit fluctuations about their mean values. With a simple model we derive transfer functions which relate the spectral density of phase noise of both the input field and the cavity length to that of the circulating field. In agreement with the standard steady state result, we find that phase noise in the incident field is low pass filtered by the cavity. Cavity length fluctuations are found to be high pass filtered in their transfer to the circulating field. These results are used to present a control loop model of the cavity-laser system. We verify the model experimentally with a Pound–Drever–Hall discriminator and apply it to a discussion of the stability of a frequency reference at 532 nm.

The U.S. strategy to assure freedom of access in space hinges on Space Situation Awareness (SSA): the ability to find and track space objects and determine their capability and intent. As a result, AFSPC is investing much to overhaul the aging sensors, network the sensors to enable data sharing and dissemination timeliness, and improve the tactics, techniques, and procedures required to integrate space surveillance into the command and control operations at the Joint Space Operations Center. Regardless, AFSPC is projecting a shortfall in deep space characterization and SSA responsiveness at the end of the mid-term planning cycle in 2020.The goal of this research paper is to recommend a few strategy refinements and a key technology investment necessary to erase these shortfalls. The recommended strategy refinements include: seeking out more contributing sensors, establishing a layered network to free up dedicated sensors to monitor high interest objects and respond to events, using all means to erase the "lost" object list, and switching some SSA missions from persistent to routine for the sake of reducing cost and complexity. Though the added sensors and planned net centricity greatly improve coverage and shared situation awareness, the complexity of the network in 2020 and timeliness required to respond to tactical events suggest the need for shared division of labor between humans and machines. Humans must transform from looking at the network as a data provider and instead look at the network as a teammate capable of sharing in the decisionmaking. This paper recommends investment in artificial cognition technology and outlines the training program required to transform the network from the new kid on the block to the seasoned grey beard capable of sharing cognition in some instances and taking over cognition and directing responsive operations when complexity and timelines necessitate it.iv

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