Bozeman company’s (AdvR Inc.) laser to be tested for space flight

AdvR Inc. http://www.advr-inc.com/ of Bozeman has established a partnership with NASA to test the company’s low-cost, energy efficient, lightweight laser for space flight. This laser will be used in instruments to help scientists measure the atmosphere and solar system to address global warming and weather prediction.

by Chandra Morris MSU TechLink center

The partnership between NASA and AdvR was initiated by the Montana State University TechLink center, a technology transfer organization located near the campus in the Advanced Technology Park. The partnership assisted in the transfer of technology between NASA and AdvR and is making the testing, or qualifiying, of the laser for space flight a reality.

"This joint effort with NASA attests to a growing partnership to develop next-generation LIDAR instruments rugged enough for solar system missions," said Ron Cooper, director of program development for AdvR.

Qualification of AdvR’s laser for use in space involves rigorous testing at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., over the next year. The results of the tests will help AdvR further develop their commercial technology, including making modifications to miniaturize its laser.

"The production scale-up of the laser technology will significantly expand AdvR operations here in Bozeman," added Cooper.

Laser-based instruments used on satellite missions provide valuable data to resource scientists worldwide. "The improved instruments NASA is developing incorporating our seed laser will lead to a new generation of instruments and significant improvements in fire and fuel loading measurements, land use patterns, floodplain determinations, and initial conditions for weather prediction," said AdvR’s chief project scientist Gregg Switzer.

Contact: David Weston (406) 994-7477, [email protected]; Ron Cooper (406) 522-0388, [email protected]