A 3D imaging and Polarimetric Lidar Applicable to Mini/Micro UAV's

We propose a wide swath, scanning, photon-counting lidar that automatically provides contiguous, co-registered, decimeter resolution 3D imaging and polarimetry data on a single overflight of the ground scene. Key components of the 3D imaging lidar include a microchip laser transmitter, 10x10 photon-counting segmented anode photomultiplier, a 100 channel multi-stop timer, and a unique dual wedge optical scanner with transmitter point-ahead capability to be used at higher altitudes and/or scanning speeds. Polarimetry data is obtained by utilizing the residual 1064 nm radiation from the imaging transmitter and inputting the reflected infrared photons into two orthogonally polarized receiver channels. The use of photon-counting techniques significantly reduces the size, weight, and prime power consumption of the sensor relative to conventional high SNR lidars, making them extremely attractive for use on Predator or Micro/Mini UAV platforms. Following the development of a parametric model which predicts sensor size, weight, and prime power as a function of UAV cruise altitude, a candidate sensor/UAV combination will be selected which best meets the projected needs of the USAF program office, and a preliminary design will be generated to support a subsequent Phase II build of the instrument.