Raytheon Delivers Missile Warning Sensor Prototype Ahead of Schedule
Raytheon Company has successfully demonstrated a fully integrated, high-performance infrared sensor ahead of schedule for the Risk Reduction Alternative Infrared Satellite Systems program. The RR-AIRSS program is sponsored by the U.S. Air Force Space and missiles Systems Center and managed by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate in Albuquerque, N.M. The program aims to prove that wide- field-of-view infrared sensors can maintain persistent full-earth surveillance for missile warning in a relatively small, low-risk
and easily manufactured payload.
The sensor represents a major technology advance compared with the current Defense Satellite and Space-based Infrared System programs. Both rely on complex scanning mechanisms to perform full-earth surveillance of missiles and other infrared targets. Initial tests and analysis indicate the RR-AIRSS sensor will outperform both significantly.
Having successfully completed in fewer than 18 months the integration and demonstration of a novel sensor able to monitor the entire earth, Raytheon is preparing to finish environmental testing. The company already has collected test pattern images that demonstrate telescope image quality and focal plane functionality. After environmental testing, the sensor will go to the Air Force Research Laboratory for further evaluation.
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