Predicting and Preventing Damage in Continuous Wave HEL Optics
Justin Sigley, AmeriCOM
Also available via Zoom
AbstractHigh Energy Laser (HEL) systems demand robust optical components and rigorous predictive maintenance schedules to mitigate the risk of catastrophic failure under high average output power. Unlike pulsed systems, where peak intensity often dictates damage, continuous wave (CW) laser optic longevity is governed by a complex interplay of thermal dynamics, material properties, and environmental conditions. This talk will highlight current work toward characterizing critical parameters affecting laser damage in CW systems and the implications for optics manufacturers and integrators.
Bio
Justin serves as the Chief Scientist at AmeriCOM where he directs the research focus of the Defense Precision Optics Consortium. He earned his PhD in Physics from Wake Forest University specializing in microscopy techniques for hemostasis, cancer, and regenerative medicine research.
Justin has spent the last 15 years developing optical systems for defense and commercial applications. At Tesseract Sensors he developed porous silicon rugate filters and covert optical gunshot sensors. At St. Johns Optical Systems, he managed a laboratory developing low-cost MWIR focal plane arrays and cameras. As an Advanced Product Manager at BEAM Engineering for Advanced Measurements, Justin developed liquid crystal based diffractive optics and optical systems for non-mechanical beam steering, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and laser range-gated imaging.
Justin is currently focused on high energy laser optics metrology and sustainable manufacturing for the defense industrial base. He serves on the Laser Focus World editorial advisory board, has authored numerous technical publications, and is an inventor on two patents.
Parking and locationThe talk will be held at UR River Campus, Goergen 101. Parking is available in the lot across the street in Intercampus Drive Lot, and is free for talk attendees (no pass needed).
