Airborne laser vibrometer for seismic subsurface inspection

We describe our ongoing research into a laser-seismic system for detecting and identifying buried objects from airborne platforms. We discuss generation of acoustic or high-power microwave sources in the aircraft, coupling of acoustic waves to seismic waves at the ground, frequency and bandwidth for resolution and propagation of seismic waves. Several alternative methods of generating the seismic wave include use of existing earth seismic noise, drop seismic noise makers, high power pulse acoustic source, microwave sources that causes an arc to generate acoustic noise at the earth's surface. A laser scans the region in a vibrometer interferometer configuration to measure the amplitude of the oscillations in the seismic wave at spots along the surface of the ground. The detection and identification of buried objects is determined from the seismic measurements.