Compact, Low Cost, Real-Time Lidar Wind Sensor

Wind estimation is a large component in the error budget for high altitude, long offset distance, precision airdrops. Cargo landing accuracy would greatly improve by precise crosswind measurements on the guided platform - a capability currently not available. CTI proposes to design and demonstrate an operational form-factor prototype wind sensor that provides real-time wind measurements to a guided airdrop system. Our baseline approach, simulated using high-performance lidar modeling codes, uses all off-the-shelf telecommunication components and automated assembly methods to meet the stringent cost and weight requirements. Phase I will deliver a trade study of primary and alternate architectures, a prototype sensor design and production cost estimates. Early in Phase II, the design, build, and test of a laboratory prototype sensor will be completed. The information gained in this experiment will be used for the development of an operational form-factor prototype that will be tested at an appropriate Army facility. These Phase I/II efforts will leverage CTI's experience in deploying wind lidar. Not only does CTI have commercial Doppler wind lidars at domestic and international airports, but we have also flown ~6 different coherent lidar transceivers on over twelve different fixed and rotary wing aircraft, while logging hundreds of successful flight hours.