Space-Based Lidar for Situational Awareness

In our Phase 1 program, Fibertek demonstrated that extremely low-cost coded-waveform LIDAR sensors can provide precision ranging and tracking from small satellite platforms.  In this proposed work, we will perform an expanded trade study over additional LIDAR phenomenologies to determine the feasibility and information value for additional sensing modes.  On completion of trade study tasks, we will design a concept sensor for high-value data collection based on the most promising performance results uncovered during trade analysis.  Finally, sensor performance will be validated with laboratory breadboard demonstration and/or performance modeling and simulation, and risk-reduction testing will be performed on key enabling technology components.   This proposal is being submitted to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in furtherance of USAF Phase I SBIR Topic AF-182-155.  Fibertek will analyze multiple lidar approaches under the proposed effort