AME - Effect of turbulence on optical performance of airborne laser systems
Our Aero-Optics group (https://aero-optics.nd.edu/) is the leader in studying optical distortions caused by air turbulence at various speeds including hypersonic ones. It has a wide range of applications, from non-intrusive sensor development to designing laser beam propagator systems.
In general, optical research systems consist of a variety of parts: lasers, lenses, mirrors, apertures, digital cameras and more. The research assistant will help in the planning and execution of optical setups, putting elements in place to align a laser beam that will be useful in examining aero-optical phenomena. In doing this, the student will assist in research that examines aspects of turbulence and other aerodynamic flow problems, and gain the skills to set up an optical bench from start to finish.
Another important aspect of this work is variety of different data analysis techniques applied to analyze the data, from simple correlation studies to more advanced spectral and modal analysis. The students are expected to know MATLAB or Python sufficiently well. The participating students will gain important skills of analyzing and interpreting experimental data.
Aero-optical effects are one of the major limiting factors for airborne laser systems. Our Aero-Optics group is undisputable leader in studying optical distortions caused by air turbulence at various speeds including hypersonic ones. Experience in conducting optical measurements and performing proper data analysis is currently of high demand by many companies and government national labs.