Measuring Ground-to-Air Atmospheric Path Transmission
ID: AF233-0037Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Measuring Ground-to-Air Atmospheric Path Transmission

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2023

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2447961

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Aug 23, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Sep 20, 2023 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Oct 18, 2023 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Oct 18, 2023 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking proposals for a research topic titled "Measuring Ground-to-Air Atmospheric Path Transmission". The objective of this project is to design and fabricate a device that can accurately measure the ground-to-air atmospheric transmission path for electromagnetic waves in the wavelength range of 0.2 µm – 14 µm. This device will improve the accuracy and reliability of infrared signature measurements.

Currently, infrared signature data collection relies on mathematical models and assumptions, which may not accurately reflect the actual atmospheric conditions. The proposed device aims to directly measure the transmission path, resulting in a more accurate representation of complex interactions and phenomena within the atmosphere. This will significantly improve the quality of infrared signature data.

The project will involve attaching a blackbody and a spectrometer to an airborne platform, with the goal of measuring how radiation from an airborne target is attenuated by atmospheric conditions. The platform should loiter at the same altitude as the target under test, preferably at 10,000 feet AGL or more, but a minimum threshold of 1,000 feet AGL is acceptable. The challenge will be to find an airborne platform capable of carrying the payload and collecting/calibrating atmospheric attenuation data.

The project will be conducted in two phases. In Phase I, the feasibility of attaching a blackbody or spectrometer to an unmanned aircraft will be determined. Phase II will involve the development and testing of a prototype aircraft capable of carrying either a spectrometer or blackbody, recording data in the wavelength range of 0.2 µm – 14 µm, and performing an atmospheric correction on infrared signature data.

The potential applications of this technology extend beyond the DoD, with valuable data that could be of interest to academic institutions and weather organizations. Efforts will be made in Phase III to identify other organizations interested in utilizing this device.

The solicitation is currently closed, with a release date of August 23, 2023, an open date of September 20, 2023, and a close date of October 18, 2023. More information can be found on the DoD SBIR 23.3 BAA page on grants.gov.

Files
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