Compact LWIR LIDAR for Aircraft Survivability

Physical Sciences Inc. and Q-Peak Inc. propose to develop and demonstrate a compact, LWIR Lidar based on a state-of-the art LWIR laser transmitter to supplement aircraft survivability equipment. A Lidar operating in the LWIR provides new capability in terms of ranging and tracking next generation surface-to-air missiles at enhanced ranges. In the Phase I program, the team developed a systems architecture study for the LWIR Lidar. The Phase II goal is to develop, fabricate, test, and demonstrate an engineering prototype Lidar system based on the Phase I design. Demonstration of the engineering prototype will involve determining precision in ranging to fixed ground targets at relevant ranges. The Phase II effort will advance the TRL of the technology to 6 at the end of the program.