Spectral-Spatial Ground Targets for Measurement of Airborne Electro-Optical Imaging System Performance

Targets located in the precision impact range area of Edwards AFB are used to evaluate the sensitivity and spatial resolution of imaging systems. The current capability to measure system performance is limited and reaching the end of life. Spectral Sciences, Inc., in collaboration with Labsphere, Inc., proposes to develop a field-ready comprehensive aircraft electro-optical sensor calibration system composed of spectral-spatial ground targets, atmospheric characterization instruments, and performance trade study and radiometry analysis software. The Phase I tasks include a comprehensive trade study to investigate the performance of various target system concepts. The trades will include variation of target material properties, focusing initially on the state-of-art calibration materials developed by Labsphere, Permaflect and Spectralon. The trade space will also include varying high contrast knife edge configurations which can be used to derive the spatial characteristics of the system under test across multiple spectral bands (visible, MWIR, and LWIR), investigation of techniques for quantifying spectral performance of multi- and hyperspectral imagers, and passive LOS measurement techniques for quantifying the effects of turbulence and visibility on spatial imagery. In Phase II, we will build a pre-production prototype compatible with the defined specifications and demonstrate full functionality in tests at Edwards AFB.