Incoherent Optical Radar for Simultaneous Range and Velocity Measurements

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency is developing an exo-atmospheric interceptor based on a ground based midcourse defense. Once separated from its booster, about 140 miles above the earth, the exo-atmospheric kill vehicle (EKV) will use passivemiddle-wavelength infrared or long wavelength infrared sensors to acquire and track the target. These sensors, however, cannot supply range and line-of-sight velocity information; range resolved, Doppler laser radar (LADAR), or equivalent is, thereforerequired to provide three-dimensional imaging for final targeting. Because the EKV uses only its kinetic energy to destroy the incoming missile, its aim must be extremely precise. Therefore, to improve target detection, discrimination, and aimpointselection, Physical Optics Corporation proposes to develop a novel advanced active seeker based on determination of Range and Velocity by Incoherent Optical Radar (RAVIOR). POC's RAVIOR seeker will have the capability of using high-power, incoherent orquasi-coherent light sources (including but not limited to lasers) to simultaneously yield range and velocity data. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate a proof of concept system. In Phase II, POC will design, fabricate, and demonstrate a proof-of-conceptlaboratory prototype RAVIOR seeker. In Phase II, POC will develop an engineering prototype RAVIOR seeker and demonstrate its performance in a simulated flight environment. POC's RAVIOR seeker will open the door to the use of high power laser radar(LADAR)-like systems for other military branches, police, and commercial applications. For example, it could be incorporated into ground and air vehicles for collision avoidance. It would be especially useful at airports and runways, especially in areasof heavy traffic.