Multiband Infrared (IR) Seeker

We propose a large-format LWIR HgCdTe Focal Plane Array that can perform rudimentary signal pre-processing and increase pixel well dynamic range, thereby elevating seeker abilities to acquire, track, and discriminate enemy targets. This approach, supported by Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems, is based on a novel differential dual pixel design using pairs of adjacent pixels each connected in an inverted, parallel configuration. With this invention, referred to by its inventor as an “opsistor,” common mode rejection of incident radiation and noise suppression can be performed simultaneously. Noise mitigation is achieved by the unique ability of this “opsistor” structure to code input optical signals with a polarity modulation pattern that permits signals to be recovered after MCT sensor detection with greater than 15dB of signal-to-noise improvement. This noise mitigation feature can permit the development of a new generation of low-cost, high-performance (large D*) smart IR focal plane arrays well matched to the requirements of THAAD and multiple kill vehicle (MKV) programs. During Phase I, we effectively demonstrated that single “opsistor” MWIR and LWIR pixels can successfully recover very weak polarity-coded target signals buried deep in noise. Similar success is expected in Phase II for the proposed opsistor-technology-based MCT focal plane array.