Background and target plume models of the strategic scene generation model

The Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) must simulate the detection, acquisition, discrimination and tracking of anticipated targets and predict the effect of natural and man-made background phenomena on optical sensor systems designed to perform these tasks. NRL is developing such a capability using a computerized methodology to provide modeled data in the form of digital realizations of complex, dynamic scenes. The Strategic Scene Generation Model (SSGM) is designed to integrate state-of-science knowledge, data bases and computerized phenomenological models to simulate strategic engagement scenarios and to support the design, development and test of advanced surveillance systems. Multi-phenomenology scenes are produced from validated codes - thereby serving as a standard against which different SDI concepts and designs can be tested. This paper describes the SSGM architecture, the software modules and data bases which are used to create scene elements, the synthesis of deterministic and/or stochastic structured scene elements into composite scenes and scene sequences, and the software system to manage the various data bases and digital image libraries. We will discuss the existing Prototype Model (SSGMP) and the design architecture of the fully-functional Baseline Model (SSGMB) which is currently being developed. We will also describe the relationship between this project, the phenomenological models, and proposed data centers to improve access to the relevant empirical data.