Product category:
Vision and Colour Sensors
News Release from: Goodrich Optical and Space Systems | Subject: SU256LX-1.7RT-0500
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 02 September 2005
SWIR array helps ensure shuttle safety
Sensors Unlimited played a critical role in creating the inspection system that was implemented during the flight of the Space Shuttle Discovery for the Return to Flight Mission.
Sensors Unlimited played a critical role in creating the inspection system that was implemented during the flight of the Space Shuttle Discovery for the Return to Flight Mission The SU256LX-1.7RT-0500, a 256-element array on a 50um pitch with a 1.7um cutoff, was integrated into the 3D laser camera system (LCS) developed by Neptec Design Group
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 13 Oct 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
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Neptec's high-resolution 3D imaging laser system was part of the 15m boom detector system deployed to inspect the shuttle's hull and wings while in orbit.
The rugged camera was designed to scan for tiny fractures and diagnose thermal tile problems even in hard to reach areas, such as the underside of the shuttle's hull.
The LCS uses a synchronised scanning technique patented by the National Research Council of Canada to generate three-dimensional data.
Neptec's laser sensor system yields much more information than traditional, two-dimensional imagery and is the first three-dimensional laser scanner qualified for use in space flight.
According to Neptec, the inspection boom provided essential information to NASA decision makers that helped them determine the space shuttle Discovery could safely return to earth.
The imaging array, developed with Sensors Unlimited's proprietary indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) technology aided in the inspection and analysis of the tiles by enabling imaging in the short-wave infra-red region.
Dr Martin H Ettenberg, Director of Imaging Products at Sensors Unlimited notes: "We are proud to have played a role in the success of this unprecedented mission and to have our SWIR linear array integrated into Neptec's laser camera System".
"We congratulate all the tireless folks at NASA and the entire team of Space Shuttle Discovery for the successful flight and safe return of the Return to Flight Mission".
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