Abstract

An extensive development program for hypersonic interceptor seeker systems and component technologies has been underway within the community for some time. Seeker system concepts using various combinations of window and sensor technologies are traded and compared by using a recently developed integrated radiance throughput model. The model provides a rapid means of medium fidelity performance evaluation over the entire dynamic range of interceptor/target engagement scenarios. Previous efforts to perform trades and performance evaluations were done piecemeal. Thorough comparisons considering complete engagement scenarios is inefficient when performed piecemeal. The throughput model was initially conceived to provide comparative performance analysis for new and existing window materials. It consists of numerous modules to simulate the operational and engagement environment. Several of these modules consist of or draw upon existing programs to analyze elements of that environment. These include LOWTRAN, SIRRM, OSC, CFD CODES, AERO-OPTIC CODE, and PHONONB. The throughput model has evolved into a means of complete seeker performance evaluation. Several typical component and system concept trades that have been recently performed are presented. An animated video demonstrating results over a typical range of parameters is presented.

© 1992 Optical Society of America