Timing modulation of a 40-MHz laser-pulse train for target ranging and identification.

We have demonstrated a target ranging and identification technique based on the timing modulation of a mode-locked laser coupled with fast incoherent detection. The range-to-target and the target-depth information have been determined with a resolution of better than 25 cm at single-pulse signal-to-noise ratios below 0.1. Our modeling results suggest that laser average power requirements remain a challenge, with upwards of 100 W likely needed for extension of this technique to ranges over 10 km, but improvements in overall system throughput would allow realization of its potential.