Abstract: The Strategic Defense Initiative Organization (SDIO) has supported a series of programs designed to automate the alignment, calibration, and control processes required for High Energy Laser (HEL) systems. HEL systems, whether based in space or on mobile platforms, must be aligned autonomously in order to meet mission requirements. Since these systems are generally large and lightweight, they are mechanically flexible. This flexibility results in launch or flight disturbances to alignment, as well as variations to alignment during long-term operation. This paper describes the alignment requirements for HEL systems, using the Space Based Chemical Laser (SBL) as the basis. Much of the discussion applies to any HEL system. The background of the alignment programs is described, and the goals of the group of programs are summarized. The alignment technologies described in this paper may find use in a wide variety of other applications requiring automated control of optical systems. !6
展开▼
