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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
We propose to investigate lunar-specific improvements to the design of an orbital swath-mapping lidar based on a new lidar system. The novel measurement approach was successfully demonstrated at 1550nm with a lab and rooftop demonstration in 2022. We are looking to design a lunar orbital version with higher-TRL components than available at 1035 nm. This project will evaluate a modification of the design that would enable the use of existing photon-counting detectors aligned with spaceflight implementation and future maturation efforts. We will also address specific needs related to the data processing for this novel type of lidar.
This project will develop a non-mechanical beam-steering lidar system capable of high-resolution swath-mapping.
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