Standoff Coherent Optical Detection of Acoustic Signals (SCODAS)

ABSTRACT: Detection of clandestine tunnels and underground facilities is a continuing interest of the US DoD and Customs and Border Protection. Research continues in an attempt to find functional and reliable sensing methods, including seismic methods. Dynamic activity in tunnels emits mechanical energy that propagates away in seismic waves. Resulting ground vibrations can be measured at offset distances and these signals can be used in sensing algorithms for detection, location, and discrimination of the activity. Current detection methods rely largely on emplaced sensors (such as geophones). To drastically improve stand-off and surveillance coverage, space-based (or perhaps airborne) surveillance is required. To address this critical need, IAI, along with the University of Maryland, proposes to develop a vibrometry technique for the detection from long range of very small vibrations induced in passive objects exposed to acoustic disturbances. In Phase I, we will use prior work at IAI and UMD to demonstrate the proposed design, and evaluate the feasibility of the proposed approach. BENEFIT: The proposed technology can be applied within DoD for detection and classification of human behavior in underground structures, and for detection and tracking of vehicles, and dismounts. In the law enforcement community the technology could be used for search and rescue, and surveillance.