Abstract

The ROBS program (Rapid Optical Beam Steering) was initiated to develop new techniques for rapid random-access beam steering of large aperture transceivers over wide fields-of-regard to enhance the capabilities of tactical and strategic laser radars. A new type of preobjective optical scanner provides diffraction-limited imaging for a 0.5-m aperture over their instantaneous field of view (IFOV) with rapid random access over a 30° field of regard (FOR). The designs are compatible with IR-visible wavelengths, usable as a transmitter and/or receiver, scalable to larger apertures (up to 2 m) and space qualifiable. The optical components are fabricated using conventional techniques.

© 1991 Optical Society of America