Laser Vibrometry System for Space Situational Awareness

Laser vibrometry systems have been fabricated, tested and used to collect data in tactical scenarios to interrogate, classify and identify targets of interest. Airborne, ground and ship-based platforms have been evaluated in field tests over relatively short ranges(< 20 Km) to verify operability of the systems. The extension of this technology to long-range scenarios (satellite observation) requires a re-evaluation of the influence of those factors unique to long-range operation (atmospheric effects, site location, source coherency, transmitter power, macroDoppler frequency ranges, large scale optics,---). The Phase 1 program addresses the relevant factors applicable to long range operation and defines those modifications of existing hardware (software) needed to mechanize the system. Laboratory tests will be conducted using legacy hardware to confirm operability using realistic ground-based (stationary) targets.