ILARTS Components
ILARTS in concert with the ship's closed-circuit television (CCTV) consists of four to six
cameras, monitors, control synchronization, a video tape recorder, and associated
power and distribution systems.
Centerline Camera
The centerline camera pickup station is unmanned and consists of two units (primary
and backup) that provide instantaneous (real-time) monitoring of aircraft landings. The
point-in-space (window) viewed by the centerline cameras is stabilized to compensate
for the pitch and roll of the ship. The IFLOLS is gyroscopically stabilized to maintain a
constant reference to earth's horizon regardless of the pitch and roll due to sea state,
ship maneuvers, and so forth. Both centerline cameras are stabilized from the same
source as the IFLOLS. Within the limits of its corrective ability, this stabilization
compensates for the camera motion so that the camera's field remains on target
regardless of the ship s pitch and roll. From their centerline position, these cameras
follow the aircraft from approach to touchdown.
Island Camera
The island camera is mounted on the superstructure and is manned by an operator. The
operator uses this camera to monitor aircraft side numbers in addition to recording
launches, general flight deck activities, and accidents. During landings, the island
camera takes over coverage at touchdown and provides final coverage of the landing.
Monitors
Monitoring units are located in various compartments such as the pilots' ready rooms,
CCA, captain's bridge, and the LSO's platform. In this manner, distribution of the
"topside activity" provides a convenient observation media for the general situation on
the flight deck. Another feature is the availability of the transmitted data to widely
dispersed locations and personnel. This feature contributes to a coordinated team effort
throughout the ship. All data are simultaneously recorded; the tapes may then be stored
for later use as debriefing material and as training aids.
AN/TPX-42A(V)
The Interrogator Set AN/TPX-42A(V), commonly referred to as Carrier Air Traffic
Control Center/Amphibious Air Traffic Control Direct Altitude And Identity Readout
(CATCC/AATCC DAIR), is an automatic beacon and RADAR tracking system that
provides safe terminal air space control of aircraft operations in a shipboard air traffic
control environment. The computer software program of the AN/TPX-42A(V) system
provides a real-time DAIR system for automated data gathering, tracking, storage,
display, and dissemination of information to assist CATCC and Amphibious Air Traffic
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