Design considerations for an infrared flying-spot telescope

This device combines the image-forming capability of a passive-ir line-scanning radiometer with motion sensing. The main purpose is to enhance image interpretability by adding motion information to the picture. Selection of wavelength and other salient features is discussed. The 10.6-micro wavelength has unique advantages and is the preferred choice, mainly due to the existence of high power, high efficiency cw lasers at this wavelength, coherent receiver techniques, and haze/fog penetration capability. A simplified method of estimating laser power is given, based on area scan rate as the dominant factor.