Abstract: Position reference system and method for positioning and tracking one or more objects which in addition to range and azimuth also provides the elevation angle of the target relative to the instrument axes of the sensor platform. The system and method is based on a near IR laser radar transceiver and one or more active or passive retroreflectors placed on the objects to be positioned. The present invention further includes an internal beam stabilization mechanism protected from the environment and utilize a cylindrical window which is transparent for the near IR laser radiation, but absorbs all visible and UV radiation and thus protects the optical parts from ambient solar radiation. In addition, the cylindrical window protects all internal mechanical parts, notably the rotating and moving parts, from a corrosive and freezing/icing environment.

Abstract: Position reference system and method for positioning and tracking one or more objects which in addition to range and azimuth also provides the elevation angle of the target relative to the instrument axes of the sensor platform. The system and method is based on a near IR laser radar transceiver and one or more active or passive retroreflectors placed on the objects to be positioned. The present invention further includes an internal beam stabilization mechanism protected from the environment and utilize a cylindrical window which is transparent for the near IR laser radiation, but absorbs all visible and UV radiation and thus protects the optical parts from ambient solar radiation. In addition, the cylindrical window protects all internal mechanical parts, notably the rotating and moving parts, from a corrosive and freezing/icing environment.

Abstract: System for detection and depiction of objects in the path of marine vessels and for warning about objects that may constitute a risk to the navigational safety. The system includes a sweeping unit for illumination of objects within the field of view of the system, including a light source which emits a beam within the field of view of the system, an optical sensor and pulse processing unit including optical detectors for monitoring of the beam output power and generation of a start pulse for measurement of distance, for detection/reception of radiant energy reflected from objects, including measurement of distance to the reflecting object(s) based on the time delay between emitted and reflected light, including energy and peak effect of the pulses.

Abstract: System for detection and depiction of objects in the path of marine vessels and for warning about objects that may constitute a risk to the navigational safety. The system includes a sweeping unit for illumination of objects within the field of view of the system, including a light source which emits a beam within the field of view of the system, an optical sensor and pulse processing unit including optical detectors for monitoring of the beam output power and generation of a start pulse for measurement of distance, for detection/reception of radiant energy reflected from objects, including measurement of distance to the reflecting object(s) based on the time delay between emitted and reflected light, including energy and peak effect of the pulses.