Beaconless Tactical Turbulence Lidar

To address the Army’s need for a beaconless tactical turbulence sensor capable of measuring range-resolved Cn2 over path lengths of 0.5 to 10 km with 10 m range resolution, Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense) proposes, in Phase II, to advance development of the Beaconless Tactical Turbulence Lidar (BEATTL) proven feasible in Phase I. The BEATTL system is based on backscattering amplification phenomena in the turbulent atmosphere that is directly related to the magnitude of the refractive index structure parameter. Atmospheric turbulence along the laser path is a key limiting factor for lethality and, as such, knowledge of the turbulence is a critical input for the fire control system. The innovative design of the compact BEATTL system enables it to operate 24/7 in a field environment, providing the range-resolved values of the refractive index structure parameter along its line of sight with a data update rate of a few seconds. In Phase I, the BEATTL feasibility was demonstrated through sensor modeling, selection of major components, design, and simulation of the operational parameters in various weather conditions. In Phase II, Intellisense will fabricate the eye-safe lidar prototype and will test and validate its operation at military test ranges to demonstrate lidar effectiveness for the prediction of laser weapon system’s efficiency. In Phase III, Intellisense will work with the Army prime contractor(s) on the integration of BEATTL into high-energy laser weapon systems.