Expendable Electro-Optic Infrared Camera System

The objective of this program is to develop expendable day/night EO and thermal cameras for SL-UAVs. The cameras are to view objects ranging in size from 200 ft vessels to 6 inch lettering. The EO camera is based on an ultra-sensitivity CCD, a laser-diode illuminator, and a compact 16x zoom. It is capable of viewing all objects in both day and night vision to 1000 ft. The camera is less than 3 inches long, and will weigh less than 5 oz. The thermal camera is based on a microbolometer array, and a novel lens system with wide and narrow FOV settings. The capabilities range from recognizing people at 500 ft to imaging vessels from the same distance. Prototypes to be constructed for each camera will be integrated with a gimbal and data link, developed by others, to form final payloads. Cameras will be tested for imaging over appreciable ranges, night vision, shock, vibration, and thermal cycling prior to delivery. Following delivery, cameras will be flight tested, first on non-SL-UAV platforms, then on SL-UAVs. The purpose is to demonstrate observation of specific objects while in flight, and to refine structural and control details. Prototypes will be usable on other platforms.