Characterization of the multiwavelength Scophony infrared scene projector

Abstract

A Scophony Infrared Scene Projector (IRSP) was developed for use in evaluating thermal- imaging guidance systems. The IRSP is a very high frame rate, laser scanned projection system incorporating Scophony modulation. The Scophony IRSP serves as the image projection system in the Kinetic Kill Vehicle Hardware in the Loop Simulator (KHILS) terminal guidance simulation. It is capable of projecting multiband target engagement scenarios with high fidelity using Aura's proprietary software/electronic control system. The Scophony IRSP utilizes acousto-optical (AO) devices to produce the required imagery at separate wavelengths, simultaneously. The separate scenes are combined and projected into the imaging guidance system. The Scophony IRSP has been installed and integrated into the KHILS facility at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Some performance characteristics of the IRSP have been measured. The current presentation provides a brief description of the Scophony IRSP and a performance evaluation. The performance characteristics measured are spot size, dynamic range, and field of view. Further characteristics may be reported as they become available.