ATTCH 7 - ORBS SOO.pdf

This is a Statement of Objectives (SOO) for the Optical Radiation Bioeffects and Safety (ORBS) program, controlled by the Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) Optical Radiation Bioeffects Branch (RHDO) under the 711th Human Performance Wing.

The ORBS program conducts research on the bioeffects of directed energy (DE) technologies spanning ultraviolet through near-infrared wavelengths, with potential inclusion of other DE exposure forms. The program goal is to enable safe and optimal exploitation of the electromagnetic spectrum for national defense while protecting personnel and communities. Research efforts are categorized under three functional areas: (1) Novel Laser Bioeffects, including laboratory and field studies on laser exposure bioeffects, damage mechanisms, behavioral responses, visual mechanisms, protective technologies, and high-energy laser target reflection measurements; (2) Nuclear Flash and Laser Eye Protection (LEP), focusing on human performance impacts, protective eyewear characterization, vulnerability modeling, and field validation of eye protection devices; and (3) Modeling, Simulation & Analysis (MS&A), requiring development of physics-level, engineering-level, engagement-level, and mission-level computational models and software tools for laser-tissue interactions, dosimetry, safety analysis, and non-lethal weapons applications. The contractor must operate and maintain laser systems, conduct empirical bioeffects research at in-vitro, ex-vivo, and in-vivo levels, develop advanced modeling and simulation capabilities, and support national and international safety standards development. Deliverables include technical reports, journal publications, software, hardware, and training materials. Contract performance requires compliance with human use and animal use research protocols, biosafety program requirements, security clearances at the Secret level minimum, information security protocols, OPSEC procedures, and facility access credentials at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.