NASA has developed a sensor suite to inspect the Space Shuttle Thermal Protection System while the Shuttle is flying in orbit. When the Space Shuttle returns to flight, it will carry a 3D Imaging Laser Radar as part of the sensor suite to observe the Thermal Protection System and indicate any damages that may need to be repaired before return to earth. The 3D laser sensor provides accurate images that include precise measurement of the depth of any flaws that may be present. This paper describes the 3D laser sensor for the next shuttle flight and indicates the remaining challenge to industry to provide a sensor that can be even more capable for future flights.

Date Published: 13 September 2004
PDF: 9 pages
Proc. SPIE 5412, Laser Radar Technology and Applications IX, (13 September 2004); doi: 10.1117/12.553810

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 5412:
Laser Radar Technology and Applications IX
Gary W. Kamerman; Gary W. Kamerman, Editor(s)