Advanced 3D Object Identification System

Optra will build an Advanced 3D Object Identification System utilizing three or more high resolution imagers spaced around a launch platform. Data from each imager will be analyzed in real time using a complex morphological image processing scheme to extract up to 100 objects of interest. These objects will then be individually tracked in the field-of-view of each imager then correlated between imagers to produce an accurate three-dimensional trajectory of each object with estimated ground impact position. Information from each imager's field-of-view is then be used to discern object size and shape information. The system is designed to be completely automated from launch through failure. The primary focus of the Phase I effort is development of the image processing algorithms involved with detecting, tracking, and identifying the objects of interest. The algorithms will be further refined during the Phase II effort and a prototype of the system will be built. Phase II preliminary field tests are planned in which recreational parachutists leaving an aircraft will be tracked and imaged from two stations. These tests will prepare the equipment and personnel for the recorded observation of a live rocket launch, with booster or stage separation, near the end of the program.