There are five objectives to the Phase I work: 1) Better measurements (photometric accuracy and precision) than WASP 1.0; 2) Larger dynamic range of stellar magnitudes; 3) Variability measurements valid for one year; and 4) sub-arc-second astrometric accuracy, and 5) the new system should have deployability and compatibility. We propose to develop and define a concept design for WASP 2.0 that has the capability to produce simultaneous multi-filter photometry, higher photometric accuracy and precision, larger dynamic range in brightness, higher astrometric accuracy, and be deployable and compatible with DON systems. We will address a number of questions during the research and development in Phase I to determine that we are meeting both the precision and accuracy requirements of the photometry and astrometry for WASP 2.0. Additionally, we have developed concepts to minimize the footprint, cost, and weight of the system. We plan to design, test, and implement a prototype system at the end of Phase I by leveraging prior related work.
Benefit: The anticipated benefits of the Phase I work are better measurements (photometric accuracy and precision), larger dynamic range of stellar magnitudes, variability measurements that will be valid for one year, sub-arc-second astrometric accuracy, and a system that will be readily deployable and compatible with DON systems. Applied Optimization Inc.s commercialization strategy is to create value-added space surveillance products to address fiscal and mission needs for the DON, USSF, and USAF for absolute position and brightness of stars, anthropogenic objects, and other space threats. The WASP 2.0 array at the end of Phase II will result in the technology ready for transition to DON, USSF, other government agencies, and commercial space surveillance networks.
Keywords: Photometric Monitoring, Photometric Monitoring, Multi-spectral, Persistent, Bright Star Variability, Sky Camera, simultaneous, absolute photometry, absolute astrometry
