Active mirror alignment for free electron lasers
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Authors
Fiorani, Fulvia M.
Subjects
Free-electron lasers
Directed energy weapons
Active control
Vibration stabilization
Directed energy weapons
Active control
Vibration stabilization
Advisors
Denardo, Bruce C.
Date of Issue
2002-12
Date
December 2002
Publisher
Monterey, Calif. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis investigates active mirror alignment systems of a free electron laser (FEL) for future integration as a ship self-defense weapon. An issue with this integration is the effect of low-frequency shipboard vibrations on the optical cavity mirrors. Alignment of the cavity mirrors is required for the proper operation of any type of laser. Mirror alignment is especially critical for an FEL because the electron beam and optical mode must substantially overlap. Laboratory FEL facilities, along with other laboratory high energy facilities that employ active mirror alignment systems, are investigated. In addition, a model theory for controlling the vibrations of a single-degree-of-freedom system is developed, and experiments with a simple mirror alignment system are described. Reduction of an impressed vibration amplitude by a factor of five is achieved, compared to a factor of fifteen that is achieved in major laboratory systems with sophisticated control systems. The purpose of these efforts is to understand the underlying physics of vibration control. The knowledge forms a basis for follow-on research towards the development of a prototype shipboard active mirror alignment system.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Physics
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
xviii, 63 p. : ill. (some col.)
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.