Scaled and Optimized Internally Cooled Window

Forward-looking infrared seekers are the preferred guidance system for current and future hypersonic interceptors. Seeker performance is limited by the infrared window’s ability to survive and image in a high-Mach, endo-atmospheric environment where heating rates can exceed 80 W/cm². Window materials primarily fail because of thermal shock, but can also experience issues due to absorption/emission at elevated temperature and material decomposition. Because of these limitations, future seeker performance improvements require the development of advanced cooling strategies for high-speed interceptor windows. For this effort, Mainstream’s internally cooled windows will be optimized to maximize optical, thermal, and system performance in a hypersonic environment. The effort will ultimately produce a cooled window and frame for testing at a hypersonic wind tunnel. Approved for Public Release | 20-MDA-10601 (19 Oct 20)