Low Cost Calibration Test Objects for MDA Systems

Development of the electro-optical sensors for use by the MDA requires flight testing against calibration targets that have well characterized radio frequency, optical and infrared cross sections. These tests are very expensive therefore there is a compelling need for low cost calibration targets. Providing well characterized visible and radar targets is reasonably straight forward, however IR is not. To solve this problem we are proposing to develop black balloons that are inflated with a liquid inflatant that has a surface tension below the critical value that allows complete wetting of the inside surface of the balloon. This will provide an isothermal target to within a fraction of a degree. If the balloon is made of a material like black Kapton then the reflected radiation will be specular, so both the IR and the visible spectrums will be independent of the viewing angle or solar angle. Also since the Kapton is carbon filled its radar signature will also be well characterized. This very simple target balloon design when married with existing L’Garde flight proven designs for the balloon canisters and ejectors will meet the MDA price goal of less the $250,000.