Phase I SBIR
Focal Geometric Array Design for Guidance Integrated Fuzing
SBIR Topic Number AF99-180
Contract # F08630-99-C-0070
The Advanced Guidance Division of the Air Force Research Laboratory Munitions Directorate (AFRL/MNG) was interested in having Nova develop initial designs for an FPA that would exploit the extremely wide field-of-view image format of an infrared fisheye lens designed and produced by Optics1, Inc. Nova refers to the device as the "Focal Geometric Array".
Phase I SBIR
Space-Hardening and Hyperspectral Application of Microdewar-Based Surveillance Sensors
SBIR Topic Number AF01-043
Contract # F29601-01-C-0137
The advanced FPA packaging concepts developed and demonstrated in the "MIRIADS" Phase II STTR program described below were recognized by the Space Vehicles Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/VSSS) to have merit in potential space-based infrared camera instrumentation. This Phase I program has the goal of extending the MIRIADS electronics and packaging design to be suitable for launch and space-based operation. Nova is developing the electronics designs, and is working closely with SSG Precision Optronics, Inc.</A> who are designing a prototype grating imaging spectrometer optical system that will mate with the Nova system.
Phase II STTR
Autonomous Detection of Missile Targets Using Neuromorphic Multi-Chip Module Techniques
STTR Topic Number AF98T019
Contract # F08630-99-C-0087
Nova was given the opportunity to develop two complete prototype infrared camera systems making use of the advanced FPA packaging concepts developed in the Phase I effort. The "Modular InfraRed Imaging Applications Development System" (MIRIADS) was developed and demonstrated. Two different FPAs were integrated into two separate MIRIADS cameras; (a)The Neuromorphic Infrared Focal Plane Array (previously developed for AFRL/MNG by Mr. Massie when at Amber Engineering), and (b)The Longwave Infrared (LWIR) Adaptive IR Sensor (AIRS) designed and produced by the Raytheon Infrared Operations (RIO). Real-time digital image processing was demonstrated with the MIRIADS through the use of an RTP1 board as described above.
