Topographic/HSI Active Transceiver (TOPHAT)

ABSTRACT:Hyperspectral imaging provides the ability to detect targets in complex environments and is essential in distinguishing manmade objects from natural surroundings. However, a significant limitation of hyperspectral systems is that they rely on natural illumination which varies based on time of day and weather conditions. A system that combines active, broadband illumination with hyperspectral imaging over comes this limitation. However, due to the lack of availability of high power broadband illuminators, efficient integration of these two technologies has not been possible until now. Under this Phase II program, SA Photonics will build upon our Flash supercontinuum laser and hyperspectral receiver technologies to develop a fully integrated, broadband active hyperspectral imaging system.BENEFIT:The HyperFlash active hyperspectral imaging scheme leads to an imaging system that would greatly help improving surveillance and reconnaissance. HyperFlash enable consist image gathering from target areas regardless of time of day, weather conditions, and time of year which can all effect passive images. HyperFlash is SWAP compatible with a range of medium small UAVs, including the RQ-1/MQ-1. The system can be used for man-made target discrimination, searching for particular spectral signatures, or improved surveillance and change detection irrespective of the existing solar illumination. The active imaging feature enables the military to monitor multiple areas of interest anytime; day or night, and focus within those segments that appear to be of interest.