ASTAMIDS (Airborne Standoff Minefield Detection System) {LASER & RFR}

ASTAMIDS (Airborne Standoff Minefield Detection System) {LASER & RFR}

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

SYSTEM PARAMETERS

The ASTAMIDS is mounted on an unmanned aerial vehicle and uses active or

SDL Frequency: 4.3 5.0 GHz

passive sensors to detect mines from standoff distances. The Surrogate Data Link

(SDL) is a subsystem of the ASTAMIDS. It is a two way data link between the

SDL Power: 3 W; 10 W

Surrogate Minefield Detection System (SMDS) and the Surrogate Air Test

Vehicle (SATV). This system utilizes a vertical parabolic reflector and vertical

Laser sensor wavelength: 808 nm

dipole antenna.

HAZARD CONTROLS (to reduce or eliminate risk)

SYSTEM HAZARDS

Laser Classification...............

This system uses a potentially hazardous continuous wave laser sensor. Establish a

Nonionizing Radiation Protection Program (IAW guidelines provided in this TB) .

Power Density Levels (PDL) ..

The SDL uplink/downlink is not able to produce potentially hazardous PDLs in excess of

the safety standard and is not subject to radiation protection control.

Laser Hazard distance ..........

In the scanning mode, do not permit personnel to view the direct beam at distances within

55 m for unaided viewing and 400 m when viewing through magnifying optical

instruments. In the nonscanning mode, do not permit personnel to view the direct beam

at distances within 170 m for unaided viewing and 850 m when viewing through

magnifying optical instruments.

Ocular injury .....................

Viewing the direct beam may cause retinal burn/eye injury. Skin exposure limits may

also be exceeded; do not permit unprotected personnel to enter the area of the beam path.

Use protective eyewear that filter the at 808 nm with a minimum OD of 4.0.

Open/cracked waveguide ......

The area between the antenna feedhorn and the reflector and any open waveguide produce

potentially hazardous PDLs. Periodically inspect waveguides for cracks or leaks and

replace suspect waveguides.

Other...............................

Consult the equipment Technical Manual for other operator and/or maintenance hazards.

Equipment - 170