Modular Integrated Adaptive Optics System

Military-class Adaptive Optical (AO) system technology remains highly specialized and typically must be tailored to the application of interest. This leads to high cost systems and a slow development cycle. Nutronics, Inc. proposes to develop a design for a Modular Integrated Adaptive Optics System (MINTAOS) based on an existing high performance design for a UAV-based AO transceiver assembly that will be integrated and tested in Q1 2010. The existing design has been analyzed for robustness to large changes in temperature and a UAV vibration environment, with end to end performance evaluation to be completed in the temperature and vibration environment of interest in Q1 2010. The modified design will enable changing the wavefront sensor to support multiple applications. Nutronics, Inc."s design process for the MINTAOS will define key trades associated with matching customer applications of interest to capabilities that can be provided by the MINTAOS. The design study will include investigation of multiple options for the phase correction device as well, including examination of the potential benefits of piston-tip-tilt segmented deformable mirrors. The resultant design will define a potential Phase 2 effort to develop and deliver a MINTAOS tailored for one or more applications. BENEFIT: The proposed effort has numerous potential benefits and commercial applications, including (but not limited to): laser communication, space situational awareness, astronomical ground based imaging, laser radar, laser rangefinding, aircraft self defense (both commercial and military), air-base defense, ship self-defense, and tactical precision strike.