Detection of rocket body through an active firing plume

摘要

Apparatus and a method for intercepting a rocket body during boost phase. A sensor is arranged to detect thermal emission in a range that is characteristic of a firing rocket body. The image detected by the sensor is applied to an analog-to-digital converter for digitization and application to a computer that includes a routine for separating the modulated photon energy of the detected image from the substantially unmodulated photon energy that characterizes rocket body emissions. The unmodulated photon energy, signature of the rocket body, may be utilized by a fire control system for tracking, targeting and aiming munitions at the firing rocket body.

主权项

1. A method for defining the image of a firing rocket body during boost phase comprising the steps of:
a) selecting a detection wavelength in accordance with a boost phase temperature of said rocket body; then b) scanning a preselected region at said detection wavelength to receive a detected image characteristic of aid rocket body during boost phase; and then c) removing a component of said detected image corresponding to a plume of said firing rocket body during boost phase whereby substantially only the image of said rocket body remains.