Parallel Multichannel Hybrid Optical Reciever

The active near-infrared imaging laser radar subsystem described in this proposal will provide new capabilities for target tracking, guidance and fire control systems by generating high frame rate, high resolution, 3-D imagery in a compact, low power package. The Phase I research will build on experience gained with earlier 25-channel, pushbroom-scanned imaging laser radars developed for submunition guidance. The proposed research will investigate new integrated photonics technologies and hybrid manufacturing processes to the miniaturization of parallel multichannel optical receivers and range counter circuits. The goal is to design a modular, high-speed, parallel multichannel optical receiver which has complete receiving and range circuitry for each pixel in a 25 by 25 element (minimum) array. The Phase I research will result in a design for a prototype 2-D APD imaging sensor to be developed in Phase II.