Hyperpixel Array Imager for Contact Identification

The Navy is seeking hyperspectral imaging (HSI) systems to integrate with Type 18 periscopes and/or newer Photonics Masts in order to perform contact recognition, identification and classification. Hyperspectral technology offers potential performance enhancement to attain additional target information and discrimination as well as possibly attain better penetration through adverse weather. Surface craft exhibit anomalous signatures compared to both water and sky horizon backgrounds in NIR/SWIR spectral bands making autonomous detection from the ocean surface feasible. Bodkin Design & Engineering, LLC (Newton, MA) and Space Computer Corporation (Los Angeles, CA) will collaborate to develop a versatile hyperspectral imaging system for visible to short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) wavelengths. Specifically, we propose to combine BD&E’s proprietary HyperPixelä Array (HPAä) imager and SCC’s proprietary hyperspectral image processing capabilities to design and build a system which will automatically identify contacts, associate a hyperspectral ‘tag’ with each contact so that it may be tracked or recognized and re-acquired at a later time, and classify each contact according to type. The system will operate over the wavelength range 400-1700 nm. The phase 1 program will be a specification development and systems design effort leading to a prototype design which will be built and tested in phase 2.