Test centre for laser optics

 

Setup for qualification of laser optics (laser damage testing)

Both in the civil and defence technology domain, the development of compact laser systems with high performance requires the availability of laser optics with high damage thresholds. The TP-AO department operates a test facility to qualify laser optics and optronic components to investigate, in particular, multiple pulse damage thresholds. Furthermore, the arising laser induced damage processes are also analysed and evaluated. This forms a prerequisite for the development of methods for the protection against laser radiation. This work is also carried out as a service for external customers. The damage thresholds are determined under class 1000 cleanroom conditions and conform to the international standard ISO 11254-2. The tests are carried out for the current Nd:YAG laser wavelengths in the infrared (1064 nm), visible (532 nm) and ultraviolet (355 nm) spectral range at pulse durations of a few nanoseconds. All the tests on optical components can be conducted both under standard atmosphere and under vacuum conditions in order to simulate conditions in orbit. The German Aerospace Centre's damage threshold test equipment qualifies all the relevant laser optics for the coming ESA missions (ADM Aeolus and EarthCARE).