Evaluation of Night Vision Goggles (NVG)/Laser Illuminator for Maritime Search and Rescue.
Abstract
During the period 17 October to 04 November 1994, an experiment was conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard Research and Development (R&D) Center to evaluate the effectiveness of a laser illuminator when conducting nighttime searches using night vision goggles (NVGs) onboard HH-60J helicopters. Two helicopters were used to search for 18- and 21-foot small boats, 6- and 10-person life rafts, and simulated persons-in-the-water (PIWs). One of the HH-60J helicopters was fitted with laser illuminator; the other helicopter was used as the experimental control and did not have a illuminator. Both helicopter crews used NVGs. A total of 202 target detection opportunities were generated for laser illuminated targets (all types) and 620 target detection opportunities for nonlaser-illuminated targets. These two data sets were analyzed to determine if the use of an active illumination device with NVGs exerted a statistically significant influence on target detection probability. Lateral range curves and preliminary sweep width estimates are presented, for evaluation purposes only, when the data were sufficient to support the analysis Human factors data are also presented and discussed. The laser illuminator is very effective in enhancing detection capability of the NVGs for small search and rescue targets. The laser provides the greatest advantage in low ambient light conditions and against targets outfitted with retroreflective tape.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA302688
Entities
People
- D. L. Raunig
- R. L. Marsee
- R. Q. Robe
- T. E. Mcclay