Very Fast 4-Dimensional Imaging Spectrometer for Intercept Phenomenology & Kill Assessment

The proposed work addresses the development of a kill assessment sensor suite specifically optimized for the characterization of the prompt plasma flash that results during the body-to-body collision of an intercept event. It is known that the plasma contains all the elements in the target warhead or RV bus, from structural materials, heat shield, propellants, to warhead materials. For a very brief moment defined by the plasma flash, it is possible to identify the elements with the proper instrumentation. Prototype instruments will be built that chart the path to operational KA instruments. The instruments include ultra fast spectrometers, one with high spectral resolution and the other with full 2D spatial and spectral resolution, as well as a trigger sensor for autonomous operations of such instruments. Lab and field measurements will be conducted, in collaboration with the major KA team organizations and National Labs. Optional activities will implement additional elements, including real-time performance, that make up a complete operational fly-along KA sensor system.