Liquid Crystal Displays as Solar Protection for Space Sensors

ABSTRACT: Space-based wide field of view cameras can be enabled to point near or directly at the sun if the sunlight is prevented from reaching any lens surfaces. A pixellated glare shield placed in front of the first lens surface that darkens in a region sufficient to shade the lens will accomplish the task. Two laminated passive matrix liquid crystal displays will achieve contrast ratios of over one million and will prevent both saturation of the sensor as well as stray reflections in the lens system. With the proper geometry, satellites can be tracked to within just a few degrees of the sun. BENEFIT: Dynamic Eye is focused exclusively on providing protection from bright sources of light. Glare protection in cameras is but one niche market for shielding technology. The high contrast ratio and low haze technology developed for space based camera will translate over to many other markets that require protection from bright sources of light. Outdoor security cameras and TV cameras for sporting events are two applications that could benefit as well.