Extended-Range Atmospheric Sensing Suite (ERASS) for Deep Turbulence Characterization

ABSTRACT: During Phase 1 the technical feasibility of the Extended-Range Atmospheric Sensing Suite (ERASS) which includes a set of sensors at three different wavelengths (0.53, 1.06, and 1.55 microns), capable of operating in strong-scintillation conditions over long (>100 km) propagation paths and providing both near and far-field measurements of major atmospheric turbulence, laser beam and image characteristics simultaneously at several spatially separated sub-apertures has been demonstrated. In Phase 2 the sensing modules of the ERASS system will be developed, integrated, and assembled and tested. All ERASS sensors will operate simultaneously with synchronized data collection. Additional software will be developed for data processing and analysis. Numerical simulation techniques will be refined and more capabilities included. At the end of Phase II, the ERASS modules will be integrated into a mobile trailer suitable for a field campaign. The ERASS system will be tested test over tactical ranges and in long range conditions similar to the COMBAT campaigns in the Hawaiian Islands or at alternative long-range atmospheric test ranges. BENEFIT: The proposed development will partially fill the existing gap in the understanding and assessment of deep turbulence effects on laser beam and image propagation in strong scintillation and anisoplanatic conditions by providing the DOD with a common atmospheric diagnostic sensing suite that currently does not exist. The ERASS system will also provide data urgently needed for the development of long-range imaging, tracking, space surveillance, laser communications, and directed energy systems as well as for verification of beam and image propagation models for military missions. Civilian applications include extended-range high-data-rate laser communications, high-altitude imaging for agriculture monitoring, traffic management, and law enforcement.