Application of Infrared Sensors to Early Launch Detection Through Clouds

In Phase 1 Visidyne demonstrated the utility of its breadboard, ground-based, Sun and Aureole Measurement (SAMNET) sensor coupled with its state-of-the-science models for particle scattering for measuring and deriving the transmission and scattering properties of clouds. Knowledge of these properties is critical to the correct interpretation of missile launch signals viewed through clouds by space-based, electro-optical sensors. In Phase 2 Visidyne proposes further applications of its SAMNET instruments and analysis software to develop the approach and algorithms as they relate to MDA operational mission requirements for early launch detection through clouds. Visidyne proposes to (1) collect statistics on field test-site measurements of cloud scattering properties, including parameters to correct overhead observations of signals transmitted through clouds, (2) analyze the variability of the measurements of cloud scattering properties affecting overhead observations, and (3) collect data to test approaches for coupling SAMNET measurements with meteorological satellite observations to provide propagated (interpolated) solutions for operational use in areas of interest (AOIs).