A roll-on / roll-off, aircraft-borne sensor pod deployment
system having an operator
station and a sensor
pallet system and method of using same. The operator
station has a base platform, a shelter box mounted on the base platform for accommodating a
human operator, and a computer installed inside the shelter box. The sensor
pallet system has a base platform, a
linear system mounted on the base platform, a rotational system mounted on the
linear system, a mechanical arm attached to the rotational system, a sensor pod attached to the mechanical arm, and an
electrical control system that provides power to the deployment system and controls movements of the sensor
pallet system. In operation, the sensor pod can be retracted into a compact, stowing position, or extended out an opening in the aircraft for an unobstructed
field of view. The deployment system optionally includes an apparatus and method for sealing the aircraft opening.