Fabry-Perot intensity modulator for hybrid lidar-radar applications

To improve the detection sensitivity of aerial light detection and ranging (lidar), a hybrid lidar-radar detection scheme has been studied. Preliminary laboratory experiments are promising, but the full-scale realization of this novel system requires the development of high speed modulators for high power, blue-green laser pulses. This paper details experimental and analytical studies performed on a Fabry-Perot modulator suitable for lidar-radar applications.