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Sub-aperture based EO imaging systems

Award Information

Agency:
Department of Defense 		Branch:
Air Force 		Award ID:
90151 		Program Year/Program:
2009 / STTR
Agency Tracking Number:
F08A-021-0027 		Solicitation Year:
N/A 		Solicitation Topic Code:
N/A 		Solicitation Number:
N/A
Small Business Information
MZA Associates Corporation
2021 Girard SE Suite 150 Albuquerque, NM -
View profile »
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
 
Phase 1
Fiscal Year: 2009
Title: Sub-aperture based EO imaging systems
Agency / Branch: DOD / USAF
Contract: FA9550-09-C-0033
Award Amount: $99,968.00
 

Abstract:

MZA proposes refinement and optimization of a novel method of atmospheric phasing for a distributed array of sub-apertures enabling high-resolution imaging. The phasing method derives tilt correction through sub-aperture image shifts used to approximate sub-aperture piston correction with linear estimation. Piston correction is optimized through image-metric-based feedback, resulting in an accurately phased high-resolution image through the array. The applied phase modulation affects the receiver optical train as well as any outgoing common-path lasers. To digitally demonstrate the performance of phasing concept, MZA will refine a WaveTrain wave-optics simulation incorporating the sub-aperture phasing system as well as a transmitter phasing system for outgoing lasers. The wave-optics model will incorporate target models, atmospheric turbulence, and may include aero-optics disturbances for an aircraft platform. MZA has teamed with Battelle Memorial Institute (non-profit) making use of Battelle's investment in graphics processor unit (GPU) technology for rapid parallel image processing. A laboratory demonstration of MZA's phasing concept will be conducted during Phase I, including GPU-implemented processing of sub-aperture and high-resolution images. Optical and computational hardware will be evaluated during Phase I to support a preliminary design for a meaningful test of the sub-aperture phasing and imaging system during Phase II.

Principal Investigator:

Matthew Whiteley
VP/Senior Scientist
9374326560
whiteley@mza.com

Business Contact:

Robert W. Praus II
President
5052459970
praus@mza.com
Small Business Information at Submission:

MZA ASSOC. CORP.
2021 Girard SE Suite 150 Albuquerque, NM 87106

EIN/Tax ID: 850400557
DUNS: N/A
Number of Employees:
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
Research Institution Information:
BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
505 King Avenue
Columbus, OH 43201 2693
Contact: Steve Smith
Contact Phone: (614) 424-3653
RI Type: Domestic nonprofit research organization