Resolution-Enhanced Tiled Intensified Neuromorphic Array Camera

To address the Space Force (SF) need for a neuromorphic camera for space domain awareness (SDA), Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense) proposes to develop a new Resolution-Enhanced Tiled Intensified Neuromorphic Array (RETINA) camera based on a unique sensor design that integrates currently available event cameras/sensors with a state-of-the-art commercial-off-the-shelf image intensifier and tapered fiber plate optical components. Specifically, the innovation in the optical tiling of currently available event cameras/sensors takes full advantage of the demonstrated performance of these sensors for space satellite tracking while providing a low-risk, cost-effective, near-term solution for sensor improvements in terms of sensor resolution, array size, and field of view, enabling the detection of a larger number of stars for more accurate satellite tracking. Additionally, the innovation in the use of the front-end image intensifier tube allows sensor performance into the near infrared region while reducing (filtering) the visible-spectrum background (sky) light, resulting in increased sensitivity and dynamic range of the event sensors. As a result, the RETINA camera will meet SF requirements for a neuromorphic camera for SDA satellite tracking using a one-meter class telescope. In Phase I, Intellisense will develop a camera design, demonstrate feasibility using a combination of in-house and procured components, and estimate the sensor’s performance with a one-meter class telescope, including comparison to other available cameras. Special consideration will be given to the sensor’s size, read noise, detection threshold, and uniformity. In Phase II, Intellisense will construct a prototype based on the design produced in Phase I and deliver it to the government for benchtop testing and evaluation.