LASERS

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP80B01676R003200190021-6
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: K
• Document Page Count: 4
• Document Creation Date: December 19, 2016
• Document Release Date: October 19, 2006
• Sequence Number: 21
• Publication Date: December 19, 1962
• Content Type: MF

,Approved For Release 2006/10/19: CIA-RDP80B01676Rfr.
t
The attached brief description of one of the newer scientific
breakthroughs -- the laser -- is forwarded per your request of 16
December.
EDWARD -B. L
Assistant Deputy Director
(Research)
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'V'1CRI/ DF Pages 2-1
MEMORANDUM FOR: Director of Central Intelligence
 Approved For Release 2006/10/19: CIA-RDP80B01676R003200190021-6
1. The "laser" is an amplifier or oscillator which operates
by induced emission utilizing light waves. The term laser stands for
"light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation". Terminology
such as "maser" and "iraser" refer to amplification of micro-waves
and infra-red waves respectively.
2. Amplification techniques are based on the fact that atoms
and molecules exist in certain energy levels or states. For an isolated
atom to alter its state it must absorb a photon or emit a photon. Thus,
a laser is constructed so that an excess of atoms can be maintained in
the upper energy state in the material. When a light wave of the proper
frequency strikes one of these excited atoms, the atom is forced to
emit radiation of the same frequency giving up its excitation energy
in the process. As the wave continues in the laser it continues to
grow or is amplified as it continues to strike the excited atoms.
3. The output of a laser is inherently very directional, nearly
monochromatic, and almost coherent. It permits, by the use of lens
or mirrors, focusing the entire output to a spot a little larger than the
wavelength of light (about one-billionth of an inch). This means that
with a power output of only a few milliwatts the power density in the
focal spot would then be some millions of watts per square inch.
These characteristics suggest general uses even though the specific
use is dependent on the characteristics of the individual device.
Possible uses are:
a. Communications - of all types including space and
plasma penetration during reentry.
b. Optical Radar - surveillance, tracking rangefinder,
air to ground.
c. Weapons - sensor destruction, anti-vehicle, anti-
personnel, anti-missile.
d. Miscellaneous - spectroscopy, power transmission,
microphotography, power transmission, light source,
fabrication techniques (welding, cutting, etc), weapons
simulation.
 Approved For Release 2006/10/19: CIA-RDP80B01676R003200190021-6
4. Much of the research and development going on in this
field is in materials and techniques although there are numerous
studies under way relative to applications. There are many difficulties
to overcome before "amplification by stimulated emission of radiation"
becomes practical in all of the anticipated use. However, certain
applications have been determined to be feasible in the laboratory.
CIA has several studies for communications and photographic appli-
cations.
 Approved For Release 2006/10/19: CIA-RDP80BO1676RcOO190021-6
Approved For Release 2006/10/19: CIA-RDP80B01676R003200190021-6