Magneto hydrodynamic (MHD) Stable Reference (MSTAR)

Applied Technology Associates

Albuquerque, NM
 

Several important innovations were introduced and demonstrated in the MHD Inertial Reference Unit (MIRU) prototype. The prototype design created for the MIRU addressed all of the critical components needed to achieve the requisite performance of a high-quality optical IRU.

• Design a configuration that facilitates separation of the sensors for low-frequency LOS knowledge and the sensors for high-frequency LOS stabilization.
• The prototype MIRU was modeled in detail to facilitate prediction of performance and to allow comparisons of verification test results with predictions. Excellent agreement was achieved between predictions and measurements.
• Currently available digital processing technology enabled the implementation of the prototype MIRU hybrid configuration and succeeded in achieving performance better than 100-nradians. system

• The NASA-sponsored SBIR project has opened the door for ATA to bid on an optical IRU production program.
• The United States Air Force and the MDA have also actively solicited R&D efforts for ATA’s optical inertial reference units and related technology innovations to achieve 20 nano-radian stability.
• ATA and aerospace companies have initiated discussions that involve solicitation of technical, design, and manufacturing support from ATA to deliver additional optical inertial reference units for terrestrial, airborne and space applications in long line-of-sight optical systems.

• A variety of NASA, Air Force, other military, and commercial opportunities exist for the MIRU system and also its component technologies. The marketing opportunity space is driven by requirements associated with advanced optical systems, with performance objectives that require precise LOS pointing and stabilization.
• As ATA performed the integration and test of the prototype MIRU, the company became aware of a potential application that meshed with future NASA needs. MIRU III, the third generation MIRU is being built for MIT/LL for use in the Mars Laser Communications Demonstration Program to point the laser from the Mars orbiter to Earth receiving stations.

Return to NASA SBIR Success Listings 

Curator: SBIR Support                8/23/05