PHYSICAL SCIENCES INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: HR001121S0007-09

Description

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop an underwater optical sensor for spatially continuous measurement of sound velocity profiles. The sensor leverages multiple technological advances, including a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) technique applicable for depth-resolved measurements over a large range of water columns, Raman scattering spectroscopy for remote sensing of water temperature and salinity, and a computational spectroscopy approach for high efficiency, time-resolved spectroscopic measurements. During the Phase I program, PSI developed a sensor prototype and demonstrated the technology measurement feasibility during laboratory and field tests. The Phase I data indicated that the Raman scattering signals returned from water are sufficient to support accurate LIDAR measurement of water temperature and salinity, consistent with literature reports. The Phase I work further demonstrated the feasibility of remote measurement of these water parameters based on a LIDAR Raman setup - a critical step towards the goal of spatially continuous quantification of ocean sound velocity. During the Phase II, PSI will continue the technology development and demonstrate the capability of a senor unit within a UUV compatible package. The Phase II sensor will be integrated into a commercial UUV and tested under representative in-water conditions for a final performance demonstration.