SBIR-STTR Award

The On-Orbit calibration process for space-based electro-optical (E-O) sensors historically has required durations much longer than the 24 hours typically needed to meet Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) mission requirements. We can dramatically shorten the on-orbit calibration timelines by developing models that incorporate per-pixel response compensation models with empirically derived coefficients to correct the sensor response over the span of likely operational conditions in which the sensor will be expected to perform. We will use ground test data to empirically develop these models and the coefficients used by them to correct the sensor response as a demonstration of this approach so that the warfighter would receive calibrated data with its expected uncertainty directly from the sensor or its proximate ground station. We will verify the practicality and the utility of these models with data that was not used in the generation of the model coefficients from a prototype instrument. We will identify modifications to the standard ground testing approach of measuring response at a few (usually two or three) temperature levels or other operational parameters that are within the ‘best’ operational regime so that we have the data to extend the useful operational envelope.

Benefit:
The results of this work will be directly applicable to any sensing program that has either quick reaction timelines or undergoes changes in the sensor operating conditions during operation that are large enough to cause deviations in the calibrated data that are larger than the system performance requirements for accuracy. This work will provide the methodology to generate response correction models, a methodology for constructing these models, and a proof-of-concept demonstration that this technique is valid using actual sensor data that has been collected during ground testing.

Keywords:
Response, Correction, Demonstration, Ground-Test Data, Empirical Model, Radiometric, Line-Of-Sight

Our Phase II approach will further develop a new empirical approach to sensor calibration with the goal of dramatically improving the rapid checkout and immediate usefulness of Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) assets. In Phase I, we demonstrated the concept of non-linear, per-pixel, response compensation models with empirically derived coefficients that corrected the instantaneous sensor response over the span of likely operational conditions in which the sensor will be expected to perform. FTI’s vision is one where sensor design, ground test experiments, and on-orbit checkout tasks are designed to promote pre-launch sensor calibration over the entire range of operating conditions expected in early on-orbit operations; the sensor is designed from the ground up to support an ORS mission. In support of this vision, during Phase II we will address the novel calibration needs of next generation of giga-pixel arrays by incorporating new computational Graphic Processor Unit technology into the workflow. Furthermore, we will construct an innovative Design of Experiment for collecting test data intelligently and efficiently. We envision creating a software suite capable of supporting future space-based and airborne electro-optical infrared sensors, where the demands of ORS and large/fast readout sensor arrays result in a challenging environment of data-rich, time-critical operations.

Benefit:
The innovation resulting from this research will have direct impact on any program that has a need to reduce the timeline between sensor deployment and the delivery of calibrated, validated data to the user. The ultimate result of the implementation of the innovations produced by this Phase II effort will be in the increased probability of mission success in the immediate period after cover release. In addition to the high visibility space-based surveillance, remote sensing and interceptor missions, FTI has identified civilian and military applications of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as being potential immediate application targets for this technology. Civilian applications for UAVs include border security, search and rescue, traffic control, fire suppression, and crop and environmental surveillance.

Keywords:
Operationally Responsive Space, Radiometric, Line-Of-Sight, Calibration, Empirical Model, Concept Of Operations, Graphical Processing Unit, Design Of Experiment ---------- AEDC needs a suite of testing approaches that will enable rapid, thorough calibration of large format imaging sensors (at least 4096x4096 pixels) with existing AEDC SSTF test equipment (scene projection and data acquisition).The methodology must extend to testing imaging sensors with field of view varying between one and 30 degrees without changes to optical hardware.The challenge is both to collect the right data and then be able to track and process that data to create useful calibration and characterization analyses.FTI will work with the Government to create a design of experiment (DOE) and software technology that would:Enable EOIR test facilities to continue calibrating the next generation of larger, more capable EOIR sensorsAvoid incurring substantial hardware upgrade costsBetter manage EOIR sensor data by incorporating more automated, robust processing software into routine data handling steps.