Responsive Space Imaging

There is a widespread need for beam steering all throughout the DoD. Both the Space Force and Air Force require advanced pointing for imaging and targeting, laser communications, directed energy, and energy transmission systems. Existing pointing systems often account for a significant allocation of Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C). Positional systems are one of the most resource intensive functions of many applications, for example, an air or spacecraft body provides first order position, followed by a gimbal, which gives you course pointing, and finally, a fast-steering mirror gives you fine angular position. In both defense and commercial markets, there is a premium on the most current / real time knowledge of what is happening on the ground. In space, the orbit of a space imaging satellite defines what can be observed below on earth. If an area of interest is outside of the sensor’s view, it is required to redirect its orientation to an object and stop and stare. The speed at which one can point a sensor from space to ground is the key performance parameter to responsive space imaging. Light Steering Technologies, Inc. is seeking to advance its patented technology which has the potential to enable a major advancement in beam steering for space imaging applications. The Multi-Axis Scanner™ technology performs pointing, scanning, and line of sight stabilization functions. This is achieved by using magnetic joints to precisely move a platform, typically a flat mirror, over a wide angular range.