First Light Observatory Systems LLC — Department of Defense STTR Phase I: AF21S-TCSO1

Description

A proposal to develop an architectural concept for a low-cost, near real-time, passive optical fence for low Earth orbit (LEO) surveillance incorporating an innovative, computationally efficient, multi-hypothesis, search algorithm for detecting dim moving objects. This new search algorithm significantly reduces computing complexity, and thus associated hardware costs. Optical arrays could be implemented using low-cost COTS optical and computing components making wide deployment of these optical fence nodes cost effective. Wide deployment reduces gap times and blind spots while allowing for mitigation of weather impact on optical sensors, and addresses resilience factors hampering other modalities. The increased processing performance enables improved detection of faint objects and reductions in image-to-information production time achieving near real-time actionable data products. This real-time capability enables quick coordination with neighboring sensors, both optical and radar, improving custody and detection, particularly of small or maneuvering objects. The output of this investigation will be the proposed architecture of a prototype optical fence and a plan to evaluate the performance and cost-effectiveness of a prototype system incorporating this new processing approach.