Low-Drag Infrared Dome

Future high-speed missiles require aerodynamic infrared dome shapes that reduce drag and have greater ability to withstand aerothermal heating. Decreased drag enables a combination of increased speed, range, and payload. Previous Navy funded programs have addressed development of fabrication methods to grind and polish outer and inner surfaces of ogive domes to the required shape. However, an aerodynamic ogive dome of transparent ceramic material which meets the optical tolerances required for the Navy"s application has not yet been produced. This program will build upon previous efforts at CeraNova and will produce an optically precise ogive dome from polycrystalline alumina. To achieve the fabrication goals, unique tool designs and optimum abrasive combinations will be employed. Metrology measurements will be performed by vendors who are developing methods and capabilities to quantify root-mean square transmitted wavefront error.