High-Intensity, Fractional-Microsecond Light Sources

Philip Nolan

High-intensity light sources have been developed for military applications in optical ranging, communications and navigation. These sources provide a small-area electric spark with a peak brightness of approximately 50 million candles/cm2, and a duration of less than 0.5 μsec. These sparks may be operated at resonant frequencies or triggered accurately by triggering electrodes. Normal frequencies of operation up to several kilocycles are possible under certain conditions. Spectrographic measurements indicate an effective blackbody temperature of the order of 30,000 K. Developmental work has included experiments with spark atmospheres of various compositions and pressures.

Print ISSN
Published
1961-08
Content type
Original Research
DOI
10.5594/J15518