Multi-Object Radar Imaging Algorithms (MORIA)

There is a stated need for a sensor to track and score multiple objects (bombs) dropped from an aircraft. The current technology is capable of tracking only one object at a time, where the capability of handling as many as 61 objects simultaneously is desired. In the Phase I topic statement, it was assumed that this could be accomplished by developing algorithms to be applied to data obtained by a conventional tracking radar. During Phase I we showed that such a radar has no inherent capability for tracking multiple objects, regardless of the sophistication of the processing algorithms that are applied. The radar must have very high resolution for tracking bombs, and since no suitable (and affordable) radar exists, we are proposing to develop such a system in Phase II. This prototype system will be fully functional, and capable of tracking practically any number of bombs and other objects. The only compromise being made in the prototype system is that the radar data will be recorded in real time, but the processing of data will be done after a mission. The system will be designed, however, with the aim of incorporating real-time processing in the future.