Multi-aperture Sensor for Hypersonic Applications

ABSTRACT: The U.S. Air Force has a need to develop a new forward looking infrared imaging system that can actively mitigate thermal loading associated with munitions flight speeds greater than Mach 5. Excessive thermal loading causes the viewing domes to emit a high background radiance, which reduces the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the sensor below the level required for reliable guidance, navigation, and situational awareness. The Spectral Imaging Laboratory (SPILAB) will investigate the feasibility of developing a multiple aperture, artificial compound eye (ACE) sensor with active cooling throughout the dome structure to eliminate the problems associated with high temperature thermal loading. BENEFIT: The actively cooled ACE sensor will enable hypersonic missiles and munitions to navigate using wide angle imaging, and to target using forward looking infrared sensing. It will be useful for both Air-to-Surface and Air-to-Air missiles. The forward looking imaging capability will also be useful for commercial aircraft traveling at hypersonic speeds.