Digital image processing system for a high-powered CO2 laser radar

Francis J. Corbett; Michael Groden; Gordon L. Dryden; George Pfeiffer; Robert Boos; Douglas G. Youmans

doi:10.1117/12.258240

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14 November 1996 Digital image processing system for a high-powered CO₂ laser radar

Francis J. Corbett, Michael Groden, Gordon L. Dryden, George Pfeiffer, Robert Boos, Douglas G. Youmans

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Proceedings Volume 2847, Applications of Digital Image Processing XIX; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.258240
Event: SPIE's 1996 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1996, Denver, CO, United States

Abstract

Textron has designed and built a high-powered CO₂ laser radar for long range targeting and remote sensing. This is a coherent, multi-wavelength system with a 2D, wide-band image processing capability. The digital processor produces several output products from the transmitter return signals including range, velocity, angle, and 2D range-Doppler images of hard-body targets (LADAR mode). In addition, the processor sorts and reports on data acquired from gaseous targets by wavelength and integrated path absorption (LIDAR mode). The digital processor has been developed from commercial components with a SUN SPARC 20 serving as the operator workstation and display. The digital output products are produced in real time and stored off-line for post-mission analysis and further target enhancements. This LADAR is distinguished from other designs primarily by the waveforms produced by the laser for target interrogation. The digital processing algorithms are designed to extract certain features through operation on each of the two waveforms. The waveforms are a pulse-tone and a pulse-burst designed for target acquisition and track, and 2D imaging respectively. The algorithms are categorized by function as acquisition/track, 2D imaging, integrated absorption for gaseous targets, and post mission enhancements such as tomographic reconstruction for multiple looks at targets from different perspectives. Field tests are now in process and results acquired from Feb.-June '96 will be reported on. The digital imaging system, its architecture, algorithms, simulations, and products will be described.

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Francis J. Corbett, Michael Groden, Gordon L. Dryden, George Pfeiffer, Robert Boos, and Douglas G. Youmans "Digital image processing system for a high-powered CO₂ laser radar", Proc. SPIE 2847, Applications of Digital Image Processing XIX, (14 November 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.258240

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