ATCOM SHARP Box for Real-Time Turbulence Mitigation

When imaging over long distances, atmospheric turbulence between the camera and subject degrades the collected data limiting the effective resolution, regardless of the quality of the optic and sensor used. This reduction in image quality can have serious impacts on the ability to carry out missions by reducing situational awareness and preventing target identification. EM Photonics has been working to overcome these challenges for more than ten years through the development of a real-time image enhancement solution, known as ATCOM. While ATCOM has been demonstrated on a wide range of applications, it is not currently in a format that would allow for low-SWaP deployment. In this project, we will build on our existing solution and extend it in several key technical areas, including algorithmic development, software optimization, and hardware packaging. The result will be a man-portable, remotely-configurable, field-deployable implementation primarily intended for imaging paths close to the ground.