Enhanced Targeting Sensor Technology

A program to develop a real-time, compact, infrared multispectral imager is proposed. The proposed Compact Multispectral Infrared Targeting System (C-MITS) builds upon Surface Optics’ real-time hyperspectral imaging activities, including our 3D full-motion video spectral imaging (FMV-SI) technology and our MIDIS hyperspectral image processor. Simultaneously sampling from 16 spectral bands from 1.5 um to 5.0 um over a full two-dimensional field, the system is ideal for identifying and tracking targets of interest to modern warfare, including those employing sophisticated camouflage techniques, whether active or passive. Through a series of data collects, trade studies, and preliminary design, the proposed program will develop and analyze an optimized design for an infrared full-motion video spectral imager appropriate for a targeting system on the Apache helicopter; the system will include a compact, rugged, real-time spectral imager plus the real-time hyperspectral (HS) data processor. The proposed effort represents an extension of Surface Optics’ 24 years’ experience in hyperspectral imager design, and miniaturization of SOC’s patented real-time hyperspectral image processor for real-time hyperspectral discrimination. By building on Surface Optics Corporation’s experience in hyperspectral imaging system development, sensor development, and algorithm development, the proposed program will produce a new compact infrared multispectral imager of unsurpassed capability.