Evaluation of Infrared Sensors for Autonomous Landing Guidance
Abstract
The objective of this program is to test sensors that could provide pilots with images of runway and landing zones under degraded weather conditions such as rain, snow and fog. During these conditions pilots are unable to land aircraft by visual reference alone. Imaging RF and EO sensors may be able to provide a view of the runway or landing zone that is unaffected by degraded weather. Autonomous landing systems would allow operations at airfields not served by conventional ground-based radio landing aids and allow military operations at unprepared landing sites or drop zones. A test was conducted at Otis Air National Guard Base by Wright Laboratory personnel in June 1992 during heavy fog. Typical staring midwave infrared sensors were used to image a simulated runway (1500 foot asphalt pad) and grass background. The distance at which the pad could no longer be discerned was measured along with supporting meteorological and radiometric ground truth data. This report presents the results and compares them to standard infrared sensor performance prediction models. Infrared SE.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA266450
Entities
People
- Anthony E. Absi
Organizations
- Wright Laboratory