Accession Number:

ADA114484

Title:

Utilization of AN/APS-94 Side-Looking Airborne Radar Systems in Search and Rescue.

Descriptive Note:

Interim rept. Jan 78-Apr 82,

Corporate Author:

ANALYSIS AND TECHNOLOGY INC NORTH STONINGTON CT

Personal Author(s):

• Osmer,S. R.
• Nash,L.
• Hover,G. L.
• Mazour,T. J.

Report Date:

1982-04-01

Pagination or Media Count:

23.0

Abstract:

Since September 1978, side-looking airborne radar SLAR detection data have been gathered in conjunction with visual detection experiments conducted by the U.S.C.G. RD Center. These are part of a series of experiments designed to improve search planning guidance contained in the National Search and Rescue Manual. HC-130 aircraft, equipped with either the Airborne Oil Surveillance system AOSS or SLARradar image processor SLARRIP configuration of the ANAPS-94C or D SLAR, conducted controlled searches for life rafts, small boats, and 41-to 95-foot Coast Guard vessels. Through the use of a microwave tracking system and SLAR data, the positions of searchers and targets were accurately reconstructed to facilitate the verification of detections on SLAR films or video tape. These data were used to evaluate the effects of environmental and controllable parameters on SLAR detection of the various target types. Of the 12 parameters investigated, target sizecomposition, search altitude, swell height, wind speed, and humidityprecipitation were found to have a significant influence on SLAR detection performance. Sweep widths for SLAR search and recommendations for SLAR utilization in SAR missions are included. In addition, recommendations for future SLAR evaluation are made. Author

Descriptors:

• *Side looking radar
• *Search and rescue
• Airborne
• Reconnaissance aircraft
• Searching
• Radar targets
• Ships
• Boats
• Life rafts
• Detection
• Performance tests

Subject Categories:

• Active and Passive Radar Detection and Equipment
• Escape, Rescue and Survival

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE