Optical Diagnostics in Rarefied Flows

This article reviews the instrumental developments accomplished at ONERA in order to perform precise non-intrusive measurements of hypersonic flows using laser- and electron-beam-based optical techniques. Point line of sight and imaging measurements are possible. Point measurements have been implemented with Electron Beam Fluorescence (EBF) using detection of X-ray radiation and Coherent anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS). When spatial resolution is not required, diode laser absorption spectroscopy yields results integrated along a line. EBF imaging using a high energy pulsed electron gun is also quite promising. Rotational and vibrational populations of nitrogen and nitric oxide have been measured in various hypersonic hyperenthalpic facilities, as well as rotational state-resolved velocities in shocks and boundary layers.