Passive Range Estimation from Angle-only Sensor Data (Acq Pointing & Tracking)

We propose to adapt angle-only passive ranging methods developed for use by the submarine force to the problem of range estimation for missiles and rockets. Three particular methods will be examined: parallax or triangulation ranging; tracker/filter algorithms; and the relationship between range and the rate of angle change over time. Parallax ranging is an instantaneous method that uses angle measurements from two physically separated sensors. Tracker and filter algorithms use target motion models and measurement error models, to calculate a stochastic estimate of the target state. The instantaneous rate at which the angle to the target changes over time, can be related mathematically to the range to that target. These methods can also be used to estimate maximum range.