INFLUENCE OF LASER RADIATION ON VIDEO CAMERA SENSORS: ANALYSIS OF CHARACTERISTICS AND DAMAGETHRESHOLDS FOR APPLICATION IN COUNTER-DRONE SYSTEMS

This article investigates the influence of laser radiation on CCD and CMOS sensors in video cameras integrated into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with implications for counter-drone systems. It examines interaction mechanisms between laser beams and semiconductor structures, encompassing photoelectric effects, thermal degradation, and electrical disruptions. Threshold laser power levels are quantified, identifying points where functional impairments and permanent damage occur. A comparative analysis highlights the differential sensitivity and resilience of CCD versus CMOS sensors: CCDs exhibit lower damage thresholds (1.6-2.7 J/cm² at 532 nm for nanosecond pulses) due to sequential charge transfer, leading to linear defects, while back-side illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensors withstand up to 103 J/cm² owing to thinner active layers and pixel-level electronics. Key vulnerability factors are dissected, including laser wavelength (optimal 300-1100 nm range, with 532 nm for dazzling and 1064 nm for deep penetration damage), pulse duration (picosecond pulses induce nonlinear effects like two-photon absorption, reducing thresholds to 10 mJ/cm²), repetition rate (100 kHz lowers thresholds by 20-30% via cumulative heating), exposure time, and optical system properties. Literature reviews synthesize prior studies on optoelectronic vulnerabilities, while laboratory experiments using Nd:YAG lasers (powers from 23.5 mW to 1.2 kW) provide empirical data on dazzling metrics (e.g., 1200 W/m² intensity for temporary blinding, with CMOS recovery in 10-20 ms versus 200-300 ms for CCD) and damage thresholds (FD95 fluence for probabilistic assessment). The role of color filter arrays (CFA) in modulating spectral response is explored, noting how they amplify absorption in visible bands but offer partial protection in infrared. Nonlinear phenomena, such as multi-photon ionization and avalanche breakdown in p-n junctions and dielectrics, are detailed for short-pulse regimes. Practical applications for drone countermeasures are outlined: low-power visible lasers for short-range dazzling (up to 5 m), high-power infrared systems with telescopic optics for damage at 300 m (intensity 1342 W/m²). Atmospheric attenuation (15-20% reduction in fog) and ethical/legal challenges are addressed. Conclusions summarize findings, recommending adaptive optics and hybrid radio-laser systems for enhanced efficacy, while proposing future research on quantum dot sensors and standardized testing protocols. This synthesis advances laser-based UAV neutralization strategies, blending theoretical insights with experimental validation for robust counter-drone technologies.