Optimization of ABLs Long-Range LADAR Sensor Under Objective Aero-optical Environments

To counter emerging threats of theater ballistic missiles the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has sponsored the development of the Airborne Laser (ABL) system. For the ABL system to defeat multiple targets over the theater of operation it must be capable of accurately tracking multiple targets simultaneously. The Active Ranging System (ARS) plays a critical role in achieving this capability by providing quick and accurate measurements of the missiles position and velocity over time. This proposal addresses critical new ladar technology for the ARS tracking function. Areté Associates has developed a proprietary ladar approach that takes advantage of fiber laser transmitters and high sensitivity low-noise detectors. The choice of the optimum transmitter wavelength in the context of performance and component availability is an unresolved issue. Detailed analysis and trade-studies are required on the near-field aero-optical effects, total path length attenuation and atmospheric turbulence to develop the trade-offs between candidate ladar configurations. In this effort Areté Associates and teammates Analysis and Applications Associates will utilize sophisticated aero-optical, atmospheric propagation and ladar system models developed specifically to address the ABL operational scenario to analyze theses trade-offs between various laser transmitter wavelengths and ladar components that will support our novel ladar approach.