Subtopic B Radar and MMW: Mobile mmW Radiotelescope for Detection of Rocket Plumes at Lunch

"This Phase I SBIR proposal addresses the use of millimeter-wave radiometry to detect continuum radiation from rocket plumes at launch. Preliminary experiments carried out in a rocket test bed at Stennis AFB, showed that the radiometric signature of arocket plume can exceed 1000o C at 35, 60 and 95 GHz. These results suggest that rocket plumes can be readily detected using a millimeter-wave radiometer. However, it is critical to carry out measurements of rocket plumes at launch to better understandthe spatial and temporal distribution of the millimeter-wave signature. This proposal describes our plan to deploy a mobile 95 GHz radio telescope having sufficient spatial resolution to map the rocket plume signature from a safe launch standoff distanceof five miles or more. During Phase I, we will design the radio telescope around an existing 95 GHz radiometer that will be provided to this project by the University of Massachusetts. A field experiment plan will be developed, including launch schedules,boost profiles, and coordination of data fusion with on-site instrumentation. We will also investigate developing a dual use capability for Milstar or other existing millimeter-wave systems to be able to detect rocket launches from ships or aircraft.Successful completion of Phase II research will yield important data on the millimeter-wave signature of rocket plumes. Development of system concepts for dual-use conversion of Milstar or other