(Huntsville, Ala.) – In an exciting new initiative, CFD Research has been awarded a groundbreaking $1.25M project from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Munitions Directorate to develop next-generation meta-optic technology that promises to revolutionize seekers for precision guided munitions systems for the Department of Defense (DoD), as well as sensor applications within commercial sectors.
An important component of electro-optic (EO) and infrared (IR) guidance systems for munitions is the seeker optic, for which designers must make a tradeoff between wide field of view for target acquisition and narrow field of view (FoV) for high-resolution imaging. This new technology overcomes this limitation by providing a single-aperture, dual-FoV optic using advanced metasurface technology.
“Current dual-FoV assemblies require additional volume and moving parts that increase the weight, cost, and failure rate of EO and IR missile seekers,” said Dr. Zack Coppens at CFD Research. “Our meta-optic technology will drastically improve their capability without altering weight or form factor, making it a game-changer for both military and commercial sensing applications.”
Meta-optics, which are two-dimensional arrays of subwavelength structures, offer unprecedented control over phase, amplitude, and polarization of light. This project investigates three innovative meta-optic design concepts using inverse design and machine learning techniques. The team is assessing key performance metrics such as image quality, manufacturability, zoom factor, and focusing efficiency across operational bandwidths. In earlier work, the team delivered a validated meta-optic concept through simulations, setting the stage for experimental demonstrations in this new project.
“This technology has the potential to transform EO/IR sensing and imaging capabilities for DoD programs,” said Ashok Raman, Senior Director of Energy & Materials at CFD Research. “It will directly enhance the seeker capabilities of weapon systems, providing a critical advantage in contested environments.”
Beyond its military applications, the meta-optic technology holds significant promise for NASA and civilian commercial markets. Compact and multifunctional optics could enable innovations in augmented/virtual reality, autonomous vehicles, small satellites, perimeter security systems, and more.
“This project exemplifies the power of innovation to address real-world challenges,” added Sameer Singhal, CEO & President of CFD Research. “We’re excited to be at the forefront of advancing meta-optic technology and delivering impactful solutions for both defense and commercial applications.”
Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the AFRL.
About CFD Research: Since its inception in 1987, CFD Research has delivered innovative technology solutions within the Aerospace & Defense, Biomedical & Life Sciences, Intelligence & Sensing, and Energy & Materials industries. CFD Research has earned multiple national awards for successful application and commercialization of innovative component/system technology prototypes, multi-physics simulation software, multi-disciplinary analyses, and expert support services. Based in Huntsville, Alabama where laboratory facilities and headquarters are located, CFD Research also has office and laboratory facilities in Dayton, Ohio, prototyping test and evaluation facilities in Hollywood, Alabama, and office facilities in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. CFD Research is an ISO9001:AS9100D registered company and is appraised at CMMI Level II for Services. CFD Research is a 100% ESOP (employee-owned company) recognized in Inc. Magazine’s Inc5000 as a top growing company for four of last five years. Learn more at www.cfd-research.com.
