Infrared (IR) Multispectral Imager for the Next Generation EKV

This program defines (and evaluates) a new and improved multispectral infrared imaging sensor for use on an Exo-atmospheric Kill Vehicle. The sensor includes processing algorithms for discriminating between threat targets and decoys despite the presence of countermeasures, such as a chaff/aerosol cloud. The sensor uses a pair of fast-sampled large mosaic detector arrays, both cryogenically cooled to minimize internal sensor noise. A Linear Gradient (spectral) filter is placed in direct contact with one array, and makes image measurements in as many as 30 narrow infrared spectral bands to assist in the target/decoy discrimination. The second detector array operates with a broad infrared spectral band, and is used to acquire high signal to noise ratio (SNR) images that provide accurate information on the target positions. Sensor and system noise components such as FPA non-uniformities and inter-frame (and intra-frame) image jitter are attenuated by novel image processing concepts developed jointly by Sage Technologies and its subcontractor, DRS Sensors and Targeting Systems Division. The proposed work includes the definition and evaluation of new methods for characterizing closely spaced objects (CSOs), and for measuring the temperature difference between spatially unresolved CSO pairs