Track Correlation

Propagation Research Associates, Inc., (PRA) proposes to utilize its unique capabilities in atmospheric effects characterization, atmospheric effects mitigation, and track processing to develop multi-spectral track correlation algorithms to improve boost phase optical-to-radar track correlation for multiple sensor fusion in support of ascent phase intercept of ballistic missiles. PRA proposes to improve track correlation algorithms that utilize atmospheric refraction and turbulence measurements along low-elevation and long-range slant paths. The proposed approach will enable enhanced effectiveness in track correlation subroutines and enable effective sensor fusion in situations where sensors have less than ideal viewing geometry of a launch event. PRA is developing the Total Atmospheric Effects Mitigation (TAEM) System on Contract FA8718-06-C-0067 and the Enhanced Tropospheric Effects Compensation (ETEC) System under MDA Contract W9113M-04-C-0042. These systems operate at the radar site and supply a real time, dynamic 3-D characterization of the propagation environment. PRA has also developed an innovative track processing approach to mitigate atmospheric effects in the forward-based to mid-course radar-to-radar handover problem under Contract W9113M-07-C-0052. In Phase II, PRA proposes to validate the approach to enhanced track correlation using a combination of high fidelity simulation and multi-spectral data collection.