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A Frank Odell Web Page
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Unofficial Web Page |
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- UNCLASSIFIED -Universal Gravity Module
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![[Atom picture]](images15/nuc_an3.gif){kind=small}
UNDERWATER
NAVIGATION| Lockheed Martin (Unofficial Web Page) |
| UNIVERSAL GRAVITY MODULE Advantages (A COTS Based System) |
| Terrain Estimation * Creates Accurate charts of surrounding terrain without use of sonar * Enables submarines to conduct safe, covert operations close to seabed * Enables submarines to operate in uncharted terrain * Enables submarines to conduct safe, stealthy entries and exits from harbors * Enables submarines to hide |
| Passive Navigation * Achieves state-of-the-art navigational accuracy without antenna exposures or sonar * Immune to GPS satellite jamming * Operates under ice * Avoids massive underwater obstacles, such as oil drilling platforms * Detects nearby deep icebergs by sensing their scoring of the bottom * Exploits bottom topography for sonar search and weapon deployment |
![[submarine picture]](images15/691.jpg)
USS MEMPHIS
| USS MEMPHIS |
| The system is presently being tested on USS
Memphis. It is expected that the tests will result in revolutionary
changes in the capabilities of the ship. The way to fight the ship
will change as will capabilities to navigate and survive in both
littoral and Arctic waters. There are really two capabilities here. The first is the ability to passively navigate without broaching or even approaching the surface. There is no need to use any active device for bottom navigation. This is accomplished using UGM and computer maps that have been previously recorded. Under ice operations should be greatly enhanced. The second is the ability to estimate the terrain around the ship. This capability provides the means of recording (mapping) the local area to an accuracy of 30 meters. This ability can be used real time to provide safe passage in uncharted waters. Range is about 7 miles by 7 miles. Objects such as sea mounts and sea ridges are clearly visible. Safe navigation near the bottom is now possible. The operator can control the viewing angle of the display, there by creating a 3D display, and that allows better selection of weapons for deployment. It also provides for maneuvering for advantage or hiding as needed. The UGM has also been carried aboard 2 FBMs for some time. |
![[Vanguard]](images15/vanguard.gif)
USNS VANGUARD
T-AG 94
| USNS VANGUARD |
| The UGM was installed on VANGUARD for over five
years and was used extensively. Gravity maps were generated and digitally recorded over the period. The ship traveled over many areas of interest during this period. The availability of GPS and the latest (at that time) navigation equipment was essential to compute the maps. An FBM instrumentation system that contained a NAV Data Logger was used to record the data 24 hours a day, every day. The ship also carried out its normal duties during this time. They were at sea a lot. Remember guys, anything that has mass has gravity. The seabed and everything around it has its own gravity. If you can accurately measure these forces you can predict the size and shape of the things around you without actively looking at them. |
