Doppler-Shifted Raman Spectroscopy Measures Flows

Abstract

Technique for measuring velocity, static pressure, and translational temperature of flowing molecules by use of stimulated Raman spectroscopy demonstrated in supersonic wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center. Nonintrusive, accurate wind-tunnel measurements obtained without seeding flows. Optical equipment for vibration-free Raman doppler velocimetry in wind tunnel includes specially designed retrometer that reduces sensitivity of system to vibrations. This capability very valuable in aerodynamic testing and proves useful in wide variety of laboratory, industrial, and engineering applications.