Detection and Tracking of Hypersonic Missiles Using EO/IR Sensors

A program to develop a SWIR-MWIR/LWIR and UV spectral imager and processor with algorithms for detection, identification and tracking of hypersonic missiles is proposed.  The proposed Hypersonic Spectral Imaging Detection Sensor (HySIDS) builds upon Surface Optics’ real-time hyperspectral imaging activities, including our 3D LightShift video-rate spectral imaging technology and our MIDIS hyperspectral image processor.  Simultaneously sampling 32 spectral bands from 2 to 12 um and 16 bands from 0.25 µm to 0.50 µm  over a full two-dimensional field, the system is ideal for detecting and tracking hypersonic missiles and glide vehicles at long range based on their very hot frontal components, missile plumes, and plasma sheaths.  Through detailed design, manufacture, assembly, and test, the proposed program will develop an optimized ultraviolet and infrared full-motion video spectral imager appropriate for all-weather day/night detection of hypersonic missiles.  The system  includes a compact, rugged, real-time spectral imager plus the real-time hyperspectral data processor with existing SOC detection algorithms and additional SBIR-developed algorithms.  The proposed effort represents an extension of Surface Optics’ 33 years’ experience in hyperspectral imager design, and miniaturization of SOC’s patented real-time spectral image processor for real-time hyperspectral discrimination.  By building on Surface Optics Corporation’s experience in spectral imaging system development, sensor development, and algorithm development, the proposed program will produce a new full-motion video hypersonic spectral imaging detection sensor of unsurpassed capability.