Low C-SWaP High Speed High Dynamic Range Radiation Hard Imager for On-Orbit Servicing Missions

We propose to develop a highly sensitive and efficient image sensor for use in on-orbit servicing missions to identify and track space debris (Tech Track A - On Orbit Approach). This work builds on an ongoing project funded by a Phase II award from the Army Research Lab, which makes the technology more advanced and our proposal less risky. Our imager will allow for high dynamic range, meaning it can image scenes that contain both very high and very low signal. Further, the sensor is power- and data-efficient because we will include image signal processing algorithms that mean data is only transmitted when the scene is relevant. The sensor will also be radiation-hardened by design so it has capabilities to be used in space applications. Our technology is of interest to prime contractors and Air Force/Space Force customers and will be ready to demonstrate in-orbit by 2026.