Final Environmental Assessment for High Altitude Mobile Pointing Platform Tests
Abstract
The Air Force Research Laboratory Directed Energy Directorate (AFRL/DE) located at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico proposes a series of high altitude balloon borne tests in support of research to advance technology for laser beam propagation through the atmosphere. Propagation testing at the Starfire Optical Range (SOR) has historically used space objects (e.g., stars, orbiting satellites) or horizontal path tests with lab instrumentation at both ends. In order to meet its current mission and technical goals in a timely and cost-effective manner, AFRL proposes to develop and fly a high altitude, near-space platform containing a small, tracking telescope and low-power laser with appropriate sensors for acquiring and tracking a telescope on the ground at the SOR. AFRL/DE is developing a program called High Altitude Mobile Pointing Platform (HAMPP) to facilitate laser propagation testing. AFRL/DE is teaming with personnel from the AFRL Space Vehicles (AFRL/VS) Balloon Program to provide integration, facilities, and launch demonstrations of this technology. The HAMPP Program would demonstrate tracking and very low power laser propagation with facilities at Kirtland AFB via an optical telescope at an altitude of approximately 100,000ft (30km) and a maximum range of 1,148,350ft (350km). The HAMPP telescope would also be used in horizontal ground tests between the SOR ground site and the SOR s two-mile remote site. The HAMPP flight program would take place from approximately December 2005 to December 2007.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 22, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA611049
Entities
People
- Joseph Volza
- Melissa Corley
- Michelle Hedrick
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory