Patent attributes
An optical system for detection of atmospheric ice particles is described. The optical system includes a laser light source configured to emit laser light, a photodetector, a first lens element and detection electronics. The first lens element is arranged to image light from the laser light source onto a measurement volume, and to direct scattered light received from the measurement volume to the photodetector. The detection electronics is connected to the photodetector, and is configured to receive a light detection signal from the photodetector and to indicate whether or not the atmospheric ice particles exist in the measurement volume based on the light detection signal.