Near Field Infrared Experiment (NFIRE)
Abstract
The Near Field Infrared Experiment (NFIRE) technology effort collected high and low resolution images of a boosting rocket to improve our understanding of exhaust plume phenomenology and plume-to-rocket body discrimination. MDA is using this data to validate the models and simulations that are fundamental to developing the guidance and endgame homing algorithms for boost phase interceptors. A secondary objective of the experiment has been to collect hyper-temporal short wave infrared and visible data for assessing early launch detection and tracking capability. The experiment has included three plume signature mission types: targets of opportunity, dedicated fly-bys, and ground observations. Targets of opportunity may include aircraft flights, space launches and missile tests at a viewing distance of 100 to 1000 kilometers. Dedicated fly-bys were high resolution observations of a dedicated target vehicle at a range of less than 10 kilometers. Ground observations may included bright burning events such as forest fires, volcanoes, and static tests of rocket engines. In addition to the plume data collections, NFIRE carries a Laser Communication Terminal and has conducted communication experiments with the German Terra SAR-X satellite. These experiments tested low earth orbit satellite-to-ground and satellite-to-satellite capabilities of the terminal for potential incorporation into the Ballistic Missile Defense System. The laser communication experiments have been conducted on a non-interference basis with the other MDA missions. The NFIRE satellite continues to be operated from the Missile Defense Space Experimentation Center (MDSEC). Data products are utilized by multiple programs to improve missile engagement performance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2011
- Source ID
- WX16_0603895C_4_0400_PB_2011
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