Overview

An overview of the elements that comprise current military electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems. Topics include properties of light, optical elements, quantum theory of light emission, operating principles of laser sources, propagation of Gaussian beams, laser sources, laser modulators, thermal sources of radiation, laser and IR detectors (photomultipliers, photoconductors, photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes), signal-to-noise analysis of direct- and heterodyne-receiver systems. Includes military applications of electro-optic and infrared technology such as missile seekers, laser designators, laser weapons, and Bragg-cell signal processors.

Included in Degrees & Certificates

• 293
• 592

Prerequisites

• EC2200
• EC2650

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the quantities of radiation and the concept of a blackbody radiator;
• Calculate the surface irradiance at the entrance aperture of a sensor;
• Compare the target radiation signature for various targets of opportunity including missile seeker domes, aircraft surfaces, jet engine nozzles etc.;
• Define and quantify the optical properties of the atmosphere including Rayleigh, aerosol scattering effects and turbulence;
• Define the background spectral radiance properties including the refection and emissivity characteristics for identification;
• Calculate the detection performance of an infrared sensor for both an analog processor and a digital processor including the probability of false alarm and the probability of detection;
• Develop the signal to noise relationship starting with the fundamental properties of the targets and the parameters of the system design;
• Use the detectivity of a detector to define the wavelength band of interest that must be targeted;
• Calculate numerical examples of minimum resolvable temperature. (10) Design an infrared search and track system using electro-optical scanning and staring sensors;
• Consider shipboard, airborne and space-based search and track system designs.