Present weather sensors are becoming increasingly important as a means to augment networks of automated weather stations and extend the capability of manned observations. The classification of hydrometeors is one of the principal tasks that is addressed by present weather sensors. In this paper we discuss new laser based technology for this purpose. The system improves upon current precipitation monitors by using a derivative of Phase Doppler Anemometry techniques to accurately determine particle speed and size. The instrument is also capable of distinguishing between liquid droplets and solid polycrystalline hydrometeors and can be used to estimate visibility. The incorporation of this technology into a meteorological station with other sensors, such as temperature and relative humidity probes leads to the accurate classification of particle type. The example data shown is taken from tests in Leicestershire, England and Utah, USA and shows the differences between solid and liquid precipitation events.

A near backscattering imaging diagnostic system is being implemented on the first quad of beams on the National Ignition Facility. This diagnostic images diffusing scatter plates, placed around the final focus lenses on the National Ignition Facility target chamber, to quantitatively measure the fraction of light backscattered outside of the focusing cone angle of incident laser beam. A wide-angle imaging system relays an image of light scattered outside the lens onto a gated charge coupled device camera, providing 3 mm resolution over a 2 m field of view. To account for changes of the system throughput due to exposure to target debris the system will be routinely calibrated in situ at 532 and 355 nm using a dedicated pulsed laser source.

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A near backscattering imaging diagnostic system has been implemented, qualified, and fielded on the first quad of beams on the National Ignition Facility [E. M. Campbell and W. J. Hogan, Plasma Phys. Controlled Fusion 41, B39 (1999)]. This diagnostic image diffusing scatter plates, placed around the final focus lenses on the NIF target chamber, to quantitatively measure the fraction of light backscattered outside of the incident cone of the focusing optics. The imaging system consists of a wide-angle lens coupled to a gated charged coupled device camera, providing 3mm resolution over a 2m field of view. To account for changes of the system throughput due to exposure to target debris the system was routinely calibrated in situ at 532 and 355nm using a dedicated pulsed laser source. The diagnostic and calibration methods will be described together with recent results from the NIF early light shots.

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