Passive Radiometry Based Aerial Navigation

ABSTRACT: The sensor system requirements for image based navigation that uses passive millimeter wave imaging radiometry will be established based on existing RelNav and AbsNav algorithms that were demonstrated to work in multi-modal imagery. Existing flight data will be used to simulate the PMMW imagery for these tests. A preliminary design of such a PMMW system will be created. Under Phase-II the sensor will be assembled integrated and flown to demonstrate navigation capabilities.; BENEFIT: The US DoD relies upon the availability of GPS for operations of various manned and unmanned platforms, from precision guided munitions, target geolocation, to Joint Direct Attack Munitions, and more. GPS however can be jammed or even hacked into. The proposed technology will allow various airborne operations to continue even in degraded or complete absence of GPS signal.