Plume Simulation Using Advanced Image Processing Techniques

ABSTRACT: An exhaust plume is a primary observable to warning sensors designed to protect low flying aircraft from MANPADS and other hostile threats such as RPG's and small arms fire with tracers. The design of current and future warning sensors and countermeasures need a complete characterization of this observable. This effort is designed to transition image morphing technology, tailored to characterize the spatial distribution of exhaust plume radiant intensity, into the development of threat signature databases which support multiple Air Force programs. BENEFIT: The critical need addressed by integrating plume morphing technology into threat signature databases is improved development and tsting of warning sensor platforms to protect military aircraft from attacks by MANPADs and other hostile threats. This technology will increase the effectiveness of warning sensor testing and countermeasure development, providing the warfighter with protection systems that are more reliable and provide better situational awareness