SBIR/STTR Award attributes
This Phase II program addresses an urgent US need for seeker windows on compact, high Mach munitions. The Phase II builds upon the results gained in the Phase I program to determine the selection of a seeker window system, the fabrication of test windows, and the delivery of seeker windows to OSD-SCO and seeker developers. The tremendous mechanical and thermal loads encountered by these projectiles during gun launch at up to 50,000 G and hypervelocity flight require highly advanced materials and designs. As indicated in the Phase I, CeraNova’s IR-transparent ceramics are uniquely able to withstand extreme temperatures and forces and provide the required precision optical performance for advanced seeker imaging on high-Mach vehicles. This technology will ultimately enable extended ranges, increased payloads and lethality, and higher targeting accuracy, all of which will provide greater warfighter protection. CeraNova has assembled a strong, knowledgeable team consisting of design, modeling and simulation expertise, capable testing organizations, seeker developers, and airframe system manufactures. As a result, program risk is minimalized and success probability maximized.
