NASA is developing and testing new and innovative technologies that will enable future safe and efficient human exploration. Description: NASA is developing techniques using new sensors for precision landing and real-time hazard avoidance. These techniques use reconnaissance terrain information for precision landing navigation and real-time active imaging with lidars (light detection and ranging sensors) to detect landing hazards. Time Frame: This work began in 2006 and is planned to end in 2013. Significance: This ALHAT technology will provide the capability for planetary vehicles to descend to the surface at a precise location and safely land under any lighting condition. Earth Application: Helicopters and aircraft may potentially use this technology to identify landing hazards from 1 km away, make 3D images from 1 km and closer, use terrain relative navigation under any lighting condition, and accurately determine ground relative velocity in all directions from 2 km away. Learn more: About ALHAT Download PowerPoint file
