Semiconductor Laser for Adaptive Optics in Astronomy and Space Awareness

Modern, ground-based, high angular resolution astronomy and high accuracy tracking of satellites and space debris both depend on sodium laser guide star adaptive optics to correct for atmospheric turbulence. The Semiconductor Laser for Adaptive Optics in Astronomy and Space Awareness will provide an innovative yet affordable laser system for use as the first laser guide star in Australia. Semiconductor laser technology presents a cost effective, highly reliable and compact alternative to the current generation of expensive, inefficient, bulky laser systems. This laser has wide scientific appeal for research with large and extremely large telescopes in astronomy, as well as for satellite tracking and mitigation of the threat of space debris.