Liquid crystal modulated optical amplifier for night vision imaging

Alexander Parfenov, X. Winston Xia, Indra Tengara, Tin Win, Jason Holmstedt, Neven Rakuljic, Tin M. Aye, Mathew W. Swinney, Peter L. Marasco

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Image intensifier tubes, as part of night vision devices, have been the primary devices for the detection and amplification of near infrared light for night vision operations. In this paper, we demonstrate a novel all-optical night vision amplifier device with a potential to replace the image intensifier tube in night vision goggles. This image amplifier is based on a novel structure of semiconductor and spectrally tunable liquid crystal (LC) materials within a thin cell. The LC reacts to near-infrared (NIR) radiation but is unaffected by visible light, allowing see-through capability including visible-wavelength cockpit light. The technology is made very attractive by its high sensitivity, spatial resolution, and contrast without expensive, bulky, and heavy optics or high-voltage components.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationLiquid Crystals XII
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008
Externally publishedYes
EventLiquid Crystals XII - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: Aug 11 2008Aug 12 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume7050
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Conference

ConferenceLiquid Crystals XII
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period08/11/0808/12/08

Keywords

  • Holographic
  • Infrared imaging
  • Liquid crystal
  • NIR
  • Night vision goggle (NVG)
  • See-through
  • Semiconductor

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