Astrometry, Astrophysics, Precise Time, and Time Interval
Abstract
This program develops, implements, and tests, on telescopes and precise time systems, technologies for the determination of the positions and motions of celestial bodies, the motions of the Earth, and precise time in order to provide the astronomical and timing data required by the Navy and other components of the Department of Defense (DoD) for navigation, precise positioning, command, control, and communications, as well as developing sensor systems for surveillance. The primary goal of this technology development is to improve the accuracy, quantity, timeliness, and reliability of the operational support provided by the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) to DoD in the areas of precise time and time interval, Earth rotation and orientation, and inertial reference frames based on star, planet, and extragalactic source positions. Further technologies will be developed to improve sensor technologies for surveillance, targeting, and navigation. The central objective of this program is to enable the USNO, as the only U.S. institution engaged in the practical application of astrometry and timekeeping, to provide DoD with precise time and celestial position data and also to promulgate such data as directed by public law through the publication of the astronomical ephemeris. The R&D supported by this area allows the USNO to fulfill its operational mission responsibilities in a field which has an ever evolving technology in sensors, communications, systems control, and analysis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA572659
Entities
People
- Kenneth J. Johnston
Organizations
- United States Naval Observatory