SABL was deployed on the C-130 in two field campaigns and received significant
improvements in FY04. Specifically, the field campaigns were AIRS
II and Ocean Waves.
The improvements began before AIRSII with the installation of an improved data
acquisition computer
and additional
laser-control software. An optical design review of SABL's receiver was completed
after AIRSII and indicated that SABL's performance could be dramatically improved
by redesigning and replacing several optical components. The optical improvements
were completed near the end of FY04. In addition, the IR channel photo detector
has been upgraded with state-of-the-art components and the system's real-time
data display software is currently being improved. Initial ground tests look
promising. These improvements will be field-tested in the upcoming RICO experiment
during the December of 2004 and January of 2005.