A system for encoding information on a movable object including a laser optically coupled to a moveable object, wherein the moveable object includes a circumferential surface and a longitudinal axis. The laser is configured to project concentrated electromagnetic radiation onto the moveable object. The concentrated electromagnetic radiation heats a portion of the surface of the moveable object affected by the radiation so as to anneal the portion of the surface affected by the radiation, thereby modifying the reflective characteristics of the annealed portion. The system also includes a mounting apparatus configured to adaptively position the moveable object relative to the laser. The system further includes a controller in communication with the laser and the mounting apparatus and configured to control one or more of the mounting apparatus and the laser to project a desired encoding pattern onto the moveable object.