New optical tracking method tested aboard shuttle

17 Jun 2002

A Laser Imaging System being developed by Naval Research and Development (Kennedy Space Center, FL) was scheduled to be tested aboard the space shuttle Atlantis on its January 12 launch. Range Safety officials currently monitor a vehicle's position using optical tracking methods that can be impaired by vehicle-engine plume, low- level clouds, and fog. By illuminating a portion of the launch vehicle with a non-invasive laser beam, clear and defined images of the vehicle can be seen even in low-visibility situations.