Advancing Geospatial Sensing Through Optical Innovation
What is GIL?
Located within ERDC's Geospatial Research Laboratory (GRL) in Alexandria, Virginia, the Geospatial Imaging Laboratory (GIL) is a specialized optics and photonics research facility dedicated to advancing geospatial sensing technologies for defense, intelligence, and civilian applications.
The GIL combines advanced laser systems, spectral analysis tools, optical diagnostics, LiDAR technologies, and sensor prototyping capabilities within a highly controlled laboratory environment. The facility supports the development, calibration, testing, and validation of imaging systems and optical sensors used in airborne, space-based, and ground-based collection platforms.
Unlike traditional testing laboratories that focus on a single sensing technology or wavelength range, the GIL provides an integrated environment for evaluating optical systems across the ultraviolet (UV), visible, near-infrared, and short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectrum. This enables researchers to rapidly move from fundamental optical research to operational sensor development and field-ready geospatial applications.
In addition to its in-house capabilities, the GIL fosters a collaborative research environment with key government partners. These partnerships have enabled the development of dedicated laboratory capabilities that support Agency-sponsored basic and applied research, accelerating the prototyping and validation of next-generation geospatial sensing technologies.
Mission
The GIL supports the U.S. Department of War and other federal agencies by advancing optical sensing, remote sensing, and geospatial intelligence technologies that improve situational awareness, mapping accuracy, autonomous operations, and intelligence collection capabilities.
The facility enables researchers and partners to:
- Develop and validate advanced optical sensing technologies
- Characterize materials, terrain, and environmental signatures across multiple spectral bands
- Prototype and evaluate electro-optical and infrared sensor systems
- Generate high-fidelity geospatial data products and 3D mapping solutions
- Support autonomous navigation, remote sensing, and intelligence collection missions
Capabilities & Services
Advanced Laser Testing & Spectral Characterization
Generation and analysis of tunable laser sources across UV through SWIR wavelengths to support remote sensing, material characterization, and optical system development
LiDAR & 3D Imaging
Development and evaluation of high-resolution LiDAR systems capable of producing dense 3D point clouds for mapping, navigation, and terrain analysis
Material Signature Analysis
Spectral characterization of materials, surfaces, terrain, and camouflage to identify unique optical signatures and improve sensor performance
Sensor Prototyping & Integration
Rapid design, assembly, calibration, and testing of custom electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) payloads and sensing systems
Optical Diagnostics & Radiometric Measurements
Comprehensive measurement of optical power, energy, temporal performance, and sensor response to support calibration and validation activities
Beam Steering & Signal Modulation
Development of custom optical scanning, beam-steering, and signal-modulation configurations for advanced sensing applications
Environmental Remote Sensing Validation
Testing and evaluation of sensor performance under varying terrain, vegetation, and atmospheric conditions to improve operational reliability
Clean-Room Optical Assembly & Testing
Contamination-controlled laboratory environments for the assembly, integration, and testing of sensitive photonic and optoelectronic systems
Equipment
Single-photon-sensitive LiDAR systems capable of capturing high-speed ranging data with up to 500-picosecond resolution. These systems enable the generation of dense, high-fidelity 3D point clouds and support advanced mapping, navigation, and autonomous system development.
BAE GmAPD LiDAR Cameras
Partnership & Collaboration
Inquiries from interested parties will be received directly by the ERDCWERX team. Following initial discussions, ERDC will determine which agreement mechanism is the most appropriate.
Potential Partnership Pathways
Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA)-
Testing Service Agreement (TSA)
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Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) (Government)
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Interagency Agreement (IAA) (Government)
Learn more about the available pathways to work with ERDC.
Request Information Form
Organizations interested in funding reimbursable services may submit the form below to inquire about collaboration opportunities. Parties interested in submitting solutions for potential funding consideration may visit ERDCWERX.org.