Optically Fused Thermal Imaging Module

Night Vision Goggles (NVGs) using image intensifier (I2) technology have been widely deployed for nighttime reconnaissance and mobility operations. I2 devices produce high resolution images with texture and detail. However, they are limited in obstructed conditions (fog, smoke, dust) and in environments with very low ambient lighting, which are conditions where devices using uncooled LWIR technology sensors perform well. Providing both sensors on a common platform gives the soldier continuous day/night operation under all conditions. ISC and its partner OPTICS 1 have developed a system using optical fusion to combine information from the low light and thermal displays via an optical element. The Clip On Thermal Imager (COTI), which is currently in production, attaches to existing NVGs in a few seconds and allows the warfighters to have fused capability at a fraction of the cost competing systems. However, the current COTI product has a limited Field of View (FOV) of 20 degrees , which does not match the full 38degrees FOV of NVG systems. This proposed program is to improve current optical overlay enabling hardware producing a system that makes use of the existing inventory of NVGs, matches the full FOV, and minimizes the size, weight, and power.