Photonics mast

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A Photonics mast is a sensor similar in concept to a submarine periscope. Because it replaces a mechanical, line-of-sight viewing system with digital equipment, it has fewer locational and dimensional constraints than a traditional periscope.

Unlike a periscope, it need not be located directly above its user, and it need not penetrate the pressure hull. This allows the photonics mast to be contained entirely within the sail of the submarine and means the control room need not be placed directly below the sail.

A photonics mast operates by rising above the water similarly to a telescoping car antenna and provides information through an array of sensors, such as high definition low-light and thermographic cameras. Images and information can be sent to are sent to display panels for analysis. The photonics mast can also support the navigation, electronic warfare, and communications functions of a conventional optical periscope mast.

[edit] Use by United States Navy

In 2004, the United States Navy began fitting photonics masts to Virginia class submarines^[1]

According to the US Navy:^[2]

In Virginia class boats, traditional periscopes have been supplanted by two Photonics Masts that house color, high-resolution black and white, and infrared digital cameras atop telescoping arms. With the removal of the barrel periscopes, the ships’ control room has been moved down one deck and away from the hull’s curvature, affording it more room and an improved layout that provides the commanding officer with enhanced situational awareness.

[edit] References

^ How Photonics Masts Will Work
^ U.S. Navy Fact Sheet: Attack Submarines - SSN (English). The US Navy (2007-11-13). Retrieved on 2008-05-15. “In Virginia class boats, traditional periscopes have been supplanted by two Photonics Masts that house color, high-resolution black and white, and infrared digital cameras atop telescoping arms. With the removal of the barrel periscopes, the ships’ control room has been moved down one deck and away from the hull’s curvature, affording it more room and an improved layout that provides the commanding officer with enhanced situational awareness.”