Low-Cost, High-Performance Inertial Rate Sensors

Defense systems such as the Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) High and Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) require extremely high-resolution Line of Sight (LOS) stabilization and extremely accurate inertial pointing knowledge. Key to mission objectives are ultra high performance inertial rate sensors to provide absolute inertial LOS knowledge and low-frequency sensor information to support control system LOS stabilization for the pointing and tracking system. Intelligent IFOS with a team having many years of pioneering experience in Fiber-Optic Gyroscopes (FOGs) proposes FOG development to meet space, particularly SBIRS High and SSTS, specifications. To meet the stringent SSTS requirements on minimal scale factor error and angular random walk as well as achieve the required angular rate and angular acceleration capabilities, IFOS will exploit innovative techniques including new components, coil production methods, and control techniques. Phase I will focus on design and the production of a proof-of-concept FOG. In Phase II, IFOS will work with Lockheed Martin on design optimization for SBIRS High / SSTS and design and fabricate four engineering prototype FOGs.