Bistatic Engagement Algorithms and Methodologies (BEAM) PH II

In the DARPA BEAM Phase II, MZA and AFIT are teaming to demonstrate the beam control methodologies and algorithms that were developed on their Phase I program. To accomplish this, we will build a coherent combined laser source to emulate a HEL phased array source. During the base period on this effort we will demonstrate local and atmospheric phase control using the interlaced receiver and transmitter array. We will also utilize vibration or strain sensors to feed forward vibration-induced phase error to the modulators. Finally, we will leverage SPGD or other iterative algorithms to optimize the overall correction. We will leverage lab test facilities at both MZA Dayton and AFIT to perform bench top demonstrations of this capability. During the option period we will integrate the CBC source with its phase controller onto a gimbal to demonstrate camera-based track hand-off to our photodiode hitspot sensor array. We will also show real time phase compensation during beam propagation to an airborne target using a target-based far field spot witness camera. All of the Phase II effort will mature the STEADI beam control architecture innovations and prepare them for HEL system implementation.