Intelligent variable-resolution laser scanner for the space vision system

A newly developed laser range scanner which can identify and locate targets attached to a satellite is described. This identification can be performed even with the sun shining directly into the sensor. The sensor makes use of two high-speed galvanometers to address individual pixels in a high-resolution large field of view. Specular reflections and background illumination problems are eliminated by proper signal processing and an optical interference filter. Very fast tracking of the object is implemented using Lissajous-type scanning figures.