Radiation Hardened Interceptor Seeker Sensor Technologies

A key requirement for a sensor in an interceptor seeker is to continue to image through adverse environments including space radiation and radiation from nuclear events. Nu-Trek is proposing to add radiation hardening to a high performance, high dynamic range LWIR/LWIR sensor using a multifaceted approach that includes a high frame rate and a novel debris gamma & beta filter. The LWIR/LWIR sensor will be rad hard to nuclear and near earth orbit environments, addressing critical missile defense requirements, for both improved performance and radiation hardness. The proposed sensor extends the state of the art of LWIR sensors currently in use in MDA seekers, offering a larger format, a higher dynamic range, and a higher frame rate. The LWIR sensor can also operate in very high debris gamma and beta fluxes and recovers in one frame after a nuclear event. All these attributes contribute to an enhanced probability of kill (Pk). The program targets transition into the MoKV and other MDA and DoD assets. Approved for Public Release | 16-MDA-8917 (15 November 16)