Microladar collision avoidance and target detection technology

The development of a very small LIDAR that takes a 3-dimensional image is proposed for small, unmanned airplanes. It will help remote pilots navigate in urban environments and be useful for target detection, terrain following, collision avoidance and landing assistance. The LIDAR will be less than 1/8 cubic foot in size, weigh about 2 pounds and acquire 20 images per second over a field of view encompassing almost the entire sky and ground. This LIDAR has a high probability of successful development since it is a straightforward modification of an existing Flash LIDAR. A path to a much smaller instrument with the same capabilities is discussed. BENEFIT: The development of the miniature, eyesafe, very efficient, high power laser in this effort will be useful to put 3D cameras aboard robots, seacraft and remotely and autonomously piloted vehicles. This technology would greatly enhance the air safety of military tactical reconnaissance. Many civilian (state-owned, such as police or forest service applications as well as private, such as electronic news gathering) applications will use this type of system.