High-g launch testing of a low-cost un-cooled LWIR imager

Abstract

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and smart munitions require low-cost IR sensors that fit within very small volumes, yet offer acceptable performance and landing/launch survivability. The LWIR band provides unique contrast for specific applications in both UAVs and smart munitions, with smart munitions presenting an additional challenge of high g-loads during launch. These high g-loads are not typically a design target of low-cost, un-cooled commercial off the shelf (COTS) LWIR sensors. This work addresses the challenges of adapting a COTS un-cooled LWIR imager for launch survivability. The sensor was modeled for mechanical stability and weaknesses identified. Modifications were made to improve launch survivability and multiple units were tested. Data is presented on the optical performance as measured through the modulation transfer function (MTF) both before and after launches for multiple locations across the lens.