Precise Timing and Astronomy
Abstract
The major thrust of the Precise Timing and Astrometry Project is to provide future capabilities that directly support the mission of the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO). These future mission capabilities are intended to: 1) address DoD requirements for needed increases in positioning accuracies of modern weapons systems by the determination of star positions (including objects at other than optical wavelengths) and the stellar inertial reference system (to which all navigation, guidance, and positioning systems are ultimately referred); 2) develop techniques for the prediction of the Earth's instantaneous orientation with respect to the stellar inertial reference system; 3) oversee the determination and dissemination of precise time information using the Navy/DoD Master Clock System and precise time distribution networks; and, 4) develop advanced electronic light detectors and interferometry in the optical and infrared wavelength regions for very precise determination of the positions of both faint and bright stars, satellite tracking, and space debris studies. DoD Instruction 5000.2 assigns to the Navy the responsibility for coordinating Precise Time and Time Interval (PTTI) requirements and for maintaining a PTTI reference standard (astronomical and atomic) for use by all DoD Services, Federal agencies, and related scientific laboratories. The Navy is also responsible for providing astronomical data for navigation, positioning, and guidance, including space. Some operational and many emerging requirements surpass current support capabilities. In response to these DoD requirements, this project transitions Research (6.1) and Exploratory Development (6.2) efforts, as well as developments in the civilian sector, into the operational capabilities of the USNO.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 2344_0603207N_4_1319_PB_2012
Related Documents
- Root: Air/Ocean Tactical Applications
- Child Accomplishment: Precise Timing and Astronomy
- Child Cost Item: 625963d77e9d701cdbcfc55efcfbbec0
- Child Cost Item: 15209d039ad00e2e1e488c6767f5b4d2
- Child Cost Item: 714b819675eea9ec92ddb6f53188b652