Bioluminescence Risk Detection Aid

The objective of the proposed work is to develop a detailed description and methodology for an intuitive, real-time bioluminescence risk detection aid (BRDA) for underwater vehicle navigation and mission planning. The purpose of the BRDA is to provide real-time information as to the probability of above water visual detection of platform-induced (e.g. an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, SEAL Delivery Vehicle, or diver) bioluminescence based on local environmental data, in situ measurements, and simple radiative transfer models. Our envisioned BRDA will include 1) a suite of simple, compact, low power sensors, 2) a data acquisition and processing system to integrate measurement streams and apply a simple radiative transfer algorithm to determine bioluminescence detection risk, and 3) a simple, graphical user interface to display real-time threat risk. In this Phase I proposal, we provide a description our proposed measurement suite, a bioluminescence contrast model, and a conceptual framework for the user interface. As part of our efforts, we will conduct a series of field experiments to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed BRDA system from which we will develop a detailed design concept for implementation of the BRDA system for an AUV.