(U) Active Imaging

(The effects of any budget/program decisions made since the information was collected during 1997-98 are NOT reflected in the National Security Space Road Map (NSSRM).)

Overview: (U)
(U) The active imaging subthrust focuses on developing active imaging techniques to obtain images of low earth orbit (LEO) objects, and extend these technologies to reach deep space or geostationary (GEO) objects.  Active imaging capabilities allow for twenty-four hour classification and imaging of satellite systems on demand.  Lasers included in the active imaging subthrust include the iodine laser-based floodbeam active illumination demonstrator and the HI-CLASS laser radar.  

Description: (U)
(U) Phillips Lab is developing an Active Imaging Testbed. This program plans on developing an  illuminator laser, integrating optical receiver hardware, and demonstrating a limited active imaging capability. Follow-on experiments will refine LEO imaging techniques. Subsequent active imaging work will extend the capability to GEO targets, with anticipated start of tests during FY00.  A full capability Hi-CLASS laser radar system is expected to be on line at MSSS during FY97. This system will be used to demonstrate Doppler imaging of LEO satellites and evaluate the potential for use out to GEO satellite altitudes.

User Impact: (U)
(U) None.

Programmatics: (U)
(U) Concept/Technology.
	(U) IOC: 02/1996 (2QFY1996).

Related Initiatives: (U)
(U) None.

Related Requirements: (U)
(U) None.

Related Categories: (U)
(U) Imaging Technology

Road Map Placements: (U)
(U) TECHNOLOGY- RDT&E.

Lead Office: (U)
(U) Air Force.

Date of Information: (U)
21 November 1997

(The effects of any budget/program decisions made since the information was collected during 1997-98 are NOT reflected in the National Security Space Road Map (NSSRM).)