MCT APD Detection System for Atmospheric Profiling Applications Using Two-Micron Lidar

An advanced detection system, based on mercury cadmium telluride avalanche photodiodes array, was implemented within a 2-μm lidar. Detection system characterization was conducted for performance evaluation including settling time, noise-equivalent-power (NEP) and dynamic range. Results indicated an average NEP of 1.4 fW/Hz1/2 per pixel. Lidar range resolved profiling demonstrated the dynamic range capability by measuring near-field aerosol scattering and far-field clouds reflection simultaneously.