CERANOVA CORP — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: OSD181-002

Description

This Phase II program addresses an urgent US need for seeker windows on compact, high Mach munitions. The Phase II builds upon the results gained in the Phase I program to determine the selection of a seeker window system, the fabrication of test windows, and the delivery of seeker windows to OSD-SCO and seeker developers. The tremendous mechanical and thermal loads encountered by these projectiles during gun launch at up to 50,000 G and hypervelocity flight require highly advanced materials and designs. As indicated in the Phase I, CeraNova’s IR-transparent ceramics are uniquely able to withstand extreme temperatures and forces and provide the required precision optical performance for advanced seeker imaging on high-Mach vehicles. This technology will ultimately enable extended ranges, increased payloads and lethality, and higher targeting accuracy, all of which will provide greater warfighter protection. CeraNova has assembled a strong, knowledgeable team consisting of design, modeling and simulation expertise, capable testing organizations, seeker developers, and airframe system manufactures. As a result, program risk is minimalized and success probability maximized.