Improved passive millimeter-wave imaging from a helicopter platform

Christopher A. Martin; Vladimir G. Kolinko

doi:10.1117/12.543350

30 August 2004 Improved passive millimeter-wave imaging from a helicopter platform

Christopher A. Martin, Vladimir G. Kolinko

Proceedings Volume 5409, Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR) Systems and Applications; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.543350
Event: Defense and Security, 2004, Orlando, Florida, United States

Abstract

A second-generation passive millimeter-wave imaging system is being prepared for flight testing on a UH-1H “Huey” helicopter platform. Passive millimeter-wave sensors form images through collection of blackbody emissions in the millimeter-wave portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Radiation at this wavelength is not significantly scattered or absorbed by fog, clouds, smoke, or fine dust, which may blind other electro-optic sensors. Additionally, millimeter-wave imagery depends on a phenomenology based on reflection rather than emission, which produces a high level of contrast for metal targets. The system to be flight tested operates in the W-band region of the spectrum at a 30 Hz frame rate. The field-of-view of the system is 20 x 30 degrees and the system temperature resolution is less than 3 degrees. The system uses a pupil-plane phased-array architecture that allows the large aperture system to retain a compact form factor appropriate for airborne applications. The flight test is to include demonstrations of navigation with the system in a look-forward mode, targeting and reconnaissance with the system in a look down mode at 45 degrees, and landing aid with the system looking straight down. Potential targets include military and non-military vehicles, roads, rivers, and other landmarks, and terrain features. The flight test is scheduled to be completed in April 2004 with images available soon thereafter.

Citation Download Citation

Christopher A. Martin and Vladimir G. Kolinko "Improved passive millimeter-wave imaging from a helicopter platform", Proc. SPIE 5409, Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR) Systems and Applications, (30 August 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.543350

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