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Abstract:
The military operates in the land, air, and maritime environments. In each of these environments, lasers and laser devices are increasingly being seen and used in a variety of ways. Accordingly, the military must protect itself and civilians from the potentially dangerous effects of lasers and other directed-energy devices. Lasers are being used on the ground to determine the intentions of people who approach checkpoints and to dissuade aircraft from entering restricted airspace. Laser weapons are also being developed for use in the maritime environment. With the use of lasers comes the requirement for eye protection. The eye is particularly sensitive to lasers and its anatomy includes optical components that amplify the power of incoming light. Consequently, the potential for injury or blinding is great. Naval Medical Research Unit -- San Antonio (NAMRU-SA) is poised to lead the way in researching and testing laser glare devices and laser eye protection. Many factors must be considered when lasers operate in military environments. On the ground, lasers offer a greater likelihood of close contact exposure. In aviation and maritime environments, the mobility of lasers is limited to permanent fixtures on aircraft or ships, so target acquisition can be much more complicated. Often ignored, but just as important and common to all environments, are the psychological factors that need to be explored. These factors include clarifying intentions, communications, and effectiveness.
| Limitations: |
 APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE |
| Description: |
Journal article |
| Pages: |
5 |
| Report Date: |
Jan 2012 |
| Report Number: |
A167755 |
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