Measurements of a supersonic velocity in a nitrogen flow using inverse Raman spectroscopy
Results are presented for supersonic molecular flow-velocity measurements using inverse Raman spectroscopy. The flow velocity, temperature, and density of flowing N2 molecules are measured because of potential wind-tunnel applications. Uncertainties of less than 5% are found for the velocity measurements, while the uncertainties are about 10% for the temperature and density measurements. The laser probe is stabilized by using I2 fluorescence, and I2 saturated absorption is utilized to provide an absolute frequency reference. Differential detection techniques are employed to reduce detection noise.