Common Modularized EO Sensor using Advanced Telescope and Pointing Concepts and Technologies

Next-generation Naval EO sensors for aircraft, UAV & Aerostat applications require improved LOS track accuracy/stability at longer detection ranges, in very compact, lightweight payloads operating under harsh thermal & vibration environments & at significantly lower overall cost. These divergent requirements dictate new sensor constructs utilizing a common shared aperture feeding modularized, strapdown, multi- mode/multi-sensor functions (Thermal & UAV/Vis Imagers, Laser Designator, Laser Radar). History has shown that common modularization is an effective path to achieve low production cost (Tri-Service Common MOS FLIR Program). This proposal standardizes key sensor subsystems in an innovative payload concept that offers reconfigurable sensor suites for multi-Navy platforms at low production/deployment cost. SSG proposes 4 low cost, enabling telescope & pointing technologies: 1) all-reflective off-axis very compact afocal telescopes with large aperture per volume; 2) high precision, agile combined pointing/stabilization systems using advanced miniaturized optical fringe counting encoder & smart bearing assembly capable of 27 bits dynamic range; 3) very lightweight, dimensionally stable, very stiff SiC or Be/Al mirror & structural materials; & 4) low cost, near-net- shape fabrication processes using CAD/CAM & diamond-turned optical figuring coupled with snap-together telescope construction. The proposed integrated technologies are based on recent Space & TMD/NMD interceptor advances including EKV, BPI/AIT, Brilliant Eyes, Brilliant Pebbles & SBIRS. Phase I will develop an advanced modularized aircraft ED payload design based on NITE Hawk & JAST; Phase II will develop & qual test a "flight- worthy" prototype telescope/pointer system. SSG has obtained strong support form both Loral & Westinghouse as REAL candidate partners for a Fast Track Phase II program (see attached letters). In fact, Loral has committed $30K each in Phase I & the Transition Phase & plans matching Phase II Fast Track Funds of $750K to develop a NITE Hawk flight experimental unit based on the proposed advanced concepts & key enabling