Hardware-in-the-loop Celestial Navigation Test Bed

ABSTRACT:In this SBIR Phase I proposal, Kent Optronics (KOI), proposes to develop a two-color compact High Resolution (~4k x 2k) Scene Projector capable of non-flickering independent image generation in both the visible and the short wave infrared (SWIR) (0.9-2.0 m). These new capabilities are intended to be implemented with the large format liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS). Custom designed output optics will be developed to match the larger FOV of the planned Celestial Navigation Testbed and meet the limited standoff distance restriction. During a kickoff meeting with the sponsor of this topic, we will discuss with the client, the detailed parameter requirements for common FOV/F#, their priorities for performance tradeoffs, and determine spectral bands extents, apparent temperature ranges (radiance), frame rate data throughput, and other performance issues that are feasible to accomplish within the SBIR Phase 1 and Future Phase 2 budget limitations.BENEFIT:The development of an Ultra High resolution SWIR-Visible Scene Projector has applications in both the military and civilian market. The SWIR spectral band is now receiving more interest for new sensor capabilities enhancing identification and discrimination capabilities. Camera and sensor manufactures, testing agencies, and organizations interested in overall system performance are all potential users for such a developed product.