Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: To address the SOCOM need for a micro weather station with the accuracy of current larger

Description

To address the SOCOM need for a micro weather station with the accuracy of current larger fielded systems but small enough to fly on a micro unmanned aircraft system (UAS) or to be handheld for field and tactical use, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) is developing the Optical Wave Guide Integrated Weather Sensor (WAGIS). This system is based on novel POC sensing and imaging technologies combined with state-of-the-art commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components. POC"s innovations in miniature laser instrumentation provide a solution for remote and local weather readings as well as 360-degree visibility. WAGIS"s lightweight design enables easy camouflage, and WAGIS works for more than 90 days without servicing, and with low power consumption and built-in redundant secure communication, which directly addresses the current need of Special Operations Force (SOF) operators. In Phase I, POC established the feasibility of WAGIS with 16 detectable weather parameters by detailed laboratory testing and delivering a proof-of-concept operational breadboard with the capability to transmit data in METAR and XML format. In Phase II, POC will complete the development of the 30 fully functional high-end and simplified WAGIS weather stations and will conduct detailed field testing of designs, ensuring proper information exchange with weather forces.