Laser remote sensing and optical communication are two important technology areas with great potential to improve human lives and impact the global economy. Although laser remote sensing and optical communication are distinct in their application areas and marketplace, they share many common technology elements such as lasers, detectors, modulators and other photonic and semiconductor devices. The goal of this book is to elevate the laser remote sensing field to a technological level that can allow low-cost and reliable instruments for a wide range of scientific, commercial, military and space applications. The field can greatly benefit from considerable advances in fiber optics and photonics component technologies. These telecommunication-related technologies will create exciting new opportunities for developing LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensors with drastically improved measurement capabilities. Topics include: laser remote sensing instruments; fiber optic and semiconductor lasers; photodetection devices; and nanocrystal and photonic structures and devices.

The MRS Symposium Proceeding series is an internationally recognised reference suitable for researchers and practitioners.

The MRS Symposium Proceeding series is an internationally recognised reference suitable for researchers and practitioners.

Laser remote sensing is a powerful technique with a wide range of applications in fields as diverse as atmospheric studies, marine ecology, space exploration, air travel safety and military target identification, thus addressing societal needs. Many LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) instruments have been developed, from ground-based, airborne and space-based platforms. However, significant improvements (more durable, lightweight, economical) are required in materials used for the LIDAR instrumentation system. This book, first published in 2005, reviews and outlines trends and challenges in this important field. Contributions from key research institutions show that advanced devices developed by the telecommunication industry can play an important role in addressing the increasing demand for more efficient and compact LIDAR systems. Fiber optics lasers and MEMS-based semiconductor lasers are examples of such devices. Reliability of LIDAR instruments is also addressed. Indeed, for LIDAR instruments operating in space, the reliability and lifetime of laser diodes are particularly critical.

The MRS Symposium Proceeding series is an internationally recognised reference suitable for researchers and practitioners.

The MRS Symposium Proceeding series is an internationally recognised reference suitable for researchers and practitioners.

The MRS Symposium Proceeding series is an internationally recognised reference suitable for researchers and practitioners.

The MRS Symposium Proceeding series is an internationally recognised reference suitable for researchers and practitioners.