Scanned Laser Illuminator/Receiver
Abstract
This report summarizes the results of an analytical and investigative study of compatible laser illuminator, high sensitivity receiver, and precision scanner techniques which are applicable to a high resolution, high data rate tracking and imaging sensor intended for airborne HEL applications. This technology survey has subsequently led to the conceptual design of a Scanned Laser Illuminator/Receiver (SLIR) sensor which utilizes a linearly scanned fan- beam laser illuminator and a synchronously scanning linear array receiver, for performing the primary HEL operational functions of long range target acquisition, precision target tracking, and accurate aimpoint selection. A detailed description of the preliminary design of a SLIR laboratory breadboard system is also included. This breadboard is configured around a 100 watt (average) Q-switched Nd:YAG laser illuminator, a hybrid CCD receiver employing silicon PIN photodiodes, and a servo-controlled moving-iron galvonometer scanner. Acquisition range performance of this breadboard is predicted to be approximately 8 kilometers for very small missile targets (100 sq cm optical cross-section) to nearly 24 kilometers for large aircraft targets (10 sq m geometric cross-section). An estimate of the labor and cost to develop this SLIR laboratory breadboard is also included.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADB015200
Entities
People
- Frank B. Warren
- Richard A. Honzik
Organizations
- Martin Marietta