Laser Site Propagation Turbulence Profiling and Forecasting

MZA's proven Path-Resolved Optical Profiling System (PROPS) dual-source wavefront sensor and Delayed Tilt Anisoplanatism (DELTA) imaging turbulence sensors will be adapted for extended-range turbulence profiling from a ground site to targets on the ground, in the air, and in space supporting Army HEL test objectives.  Recent developments have combined both PROPS and DELTA sensing into a single optical transceiver, including target tracking and gimbal control for dynamic surface-to-aircraft testing.  During the Base Period, long-range profiling sources and receivers will be designed to allow integration into relocatable ground platforms as well as test aircraft with suitable tracker gimbals.  Thus, common optical hardware may be employed to support a variety of geometries needed for Army and Joint-Service developmental testing.  Wave-optics simulations will be conducted to validate turbulence profiling capabilities and limitations for the required propagation paths using the new hardware designs.  We will use existing profiler measurements to modify environmental modeling algorithms which enable laser propagation forecasting.  The proposed Phase I Option includes a ground demonstration of PROPS/DELTA profiling between ground sites at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR.)  A preliminary design for the Phase II prototype hardware and testing will be developed during the Option.