Terrain Mapping LADAR (TML)

The use of a miniature wide angle, video scan rate, LADAR in combination with an intuitive software display will allow vehicle operators to assess rough terrain for crossing. The Terrain Mapping LADAR (TML) is a compact LADAR unit that can be easily mounted on a vehicle or mast attached to a vehicle offering very low power draw, operation in dense foliage, and all weather operation including in all lighting conditions, bright sunshine, night time, rain, dust, and heavy fog, and is Class I eye-safe. The sensor data contains the range and local reflectivity for multiple objects in range, limiting the computational load for the image processor, but preserving the ability to see through dense foliage. The output of the image processor will be displayed on a color display with a rotatable 3D wire-frame, intuitively displaying the profile and dimensions, and a draped color contour map, displaying the local grade (slope) of the terrain so easy, quantitative, crossing decisions can be made.