Laser Doppler velocimetry: A status report

Since the first experimental work in 1964, the measurement of velocity by means of the Doppler shift in scattered laser light has developed into an important tool in fluid mechanics research which often provides data unobtainable with other instruments. This paper reviews the fundamentals of laser Doppler velocimeter system design including optical requirements and signal processing considerations. Numerous applications are described to illustrate the present state of the art.