Advanced Airborne Technology Unveiled

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Unmanned aircraft systems enable tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) without endangering military personnel. A new airborne surveillance camera system unveiled recently is suitable for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and small manned aviation platforms used for border control, military purposes, and a variety of civil applications.

The multi-mission Epsilon 180 is an advanced full HD electro-optical, mid-wave infrared, laser range finder and laser pointer (EO/MWIR/LRF/LP) ISR payload. 

The system developed by Octopus ISR Systems offers enhanced daylight imaging, improved MWIR performance and extended LRF range, according to the company’s announcement. The imaging technology includes a full HD 30x optical zoom, global shutter EO sensor, a 15x optical zoom MWIR sensor, a laser range finder with up to 20km measuring range, and a laser pointer.

The powerful onboard processor comes with a variety of software features including image stabilization in three axes, automatic target tracking, and a moving target indicator. 

The system provides image stabilization performance of less than <50 uRad RMS. The ISR payload also integrates a high-performance Inertial Navigation System (INS) for geopointing and real-time target geolocation.

Its rugged, lightweight design is optimized for demanding applications. The system features a sealed structure that’s filled with dry gas, which makes it possible to operate in any weather conditions. The advanced magnesium structure, without any 3D parts, is optimized to handle harsh conditions such as shock and rapid acceleration.