Evaluation of Event-based Cameras for Cis-Lunar Position, Navigation, and Timing

Abstract

This research proposal explores the use of event-based (or neuromorphic) sensors for cis-lunar position, navigation, and timing tasks. These sensors do not integrate light but only report changes. Evaluation of Event-based Cameras for Cis-Lunar Position, Navigation, and Timing in contrast at the pixel level, emitting these asynchronously as a low-bandwidth spatio-temporal stream of change events. This activity-driven output allows these sensors to perform optical imaging tasks in challenging or impossible conditions for conventional cameras. Our prior research has demonstrated the ability of these sensors to operate under motion, detect objects close to the lunar and Earth’s surface, and operate across a wide range of lighting conditions. The unique difficulties around detecting and tracking stars and satellites from the lunar surface, or cis-lunar orbits, require novel approaches to space imaging, star tracking, and optical methods for astrometry. The proposed research will explore the application of event-based sensors to these tasks, focusing on exploiting the unique operating benefits of this technology to provide the sensor requirements for future cis-lunar navigation tasks.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Feb 16, 2024
Source ID
FA23862314005

Entities

People

  • Gregory Cohen

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • United States Air Force
  • Western Sydney University

Tags

Readers

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Computer Vision.
  • Integrated Circuit Design and Technology.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Space Objects