Cinetheodolites
Cinetheodolites are used to record Time Space Position Information (TSPI). These instruments utilize 21 bit optical encoders to record the angular position from the mount location to the test object. By triangulating the vectors generated by 3 or more units, the geospatial position of the test object can be determined to within one cubic meter.
The instruments can be synchronized with TTR’s tracking radars for target acquisition and ranging information for camera focus. Each mount utilizes a digital camera for image capture; has a computer on board to create metadata, record data, and control operations of the mount; and a fiber optic slip ring to remotely transfer data onto and off the pedestal. Currently all cinetheodolites must be controlled locally during operations; however, development is underway to allow mounts to operate in either a local or remote-controlled configuration.
Telescopes
Tracking Telescopes are used to record event data. These instruments utilize a 117 inch Newtonian lens to record data at a distance of 5 miles without distortion. Used in conjunction with high speed digital cameras, the units can determine event times to within 1/100 of a second. The instruments can be synchronized with TTR’s tracking radars for target acquisition and ranging information for camera focus.
The mount can also be outfitted with an NTSC or high speed video camera to document the event as well as provide real time video feed to the Control Point (CP) for situational awareness. Currently telescopes must be controlled locally during operations; however, development is underway to allow mounts to operate in either a local or remote-controlled configuration.
Gimbal Tracking Mounts
The Gimbal Tracking Mounts can be deployed at 11 locations around the range. They are designed for remote tracking and include onboard optical auto-tracking capability. Each mount is outfitted with three sensors: (1) a Mikrotron MC-1363 CMOS imager with a 100-inch fixed-focal-length lens as the primary sensor; (2) an L-3 WALRSS high-resolution mid-wave infrared continuous-zoom tracking imager with focal lengths from 200 mm to 1200 mm; and (3) a Hitachi visible-spectrum continuous-zoom tracking imager with focal lengths from 17 mm to 374 mm. The platform is GPS capable and can accommodate an additional 150 lb payload. All onboard video is time-tagged and recorded.