THE IMPLICATIONS OF ELECTRO-OPTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR GROSS OCEAN SURVEILLANCE FROM ASTRONAUTIC SYSTEMS
Abstract
Research on the implications of using electro-optical techniques for gross ocean surface surveillance from astronautic systems has been carried out. The ranges of radiating temperatures to be expected of typical surface ships and the ocean background have been established. The signal available for detection per degree of temperature contrast between typical surface ships and the ocean was established for orbit altitudes of from one hundred to four hundred nautical miles. In turn, the temperature contrast between typical surface ships and the ocean required to achieve detection was established as a function of scan angle for a specified optical system using a long wavelength detector and operating at 200 nautical mile altitude. Correspondence was maintained between the irradiance at the collector and the scan angle to allow for the effects of atmospheric transmission and range changes. Included in the overall study were a review of current ocean surveillance methods and an estimate of current and future ocean traffic. Some characteristics of clouds as a background constituent were established. Consideration was also given to the problems of tracking, recognition, classification, resolution requirements and man's role in a satellite.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0379774
Entities
People
- Arthur C. S. Roberts
- Lawrence D. Lorah