Develop low-cost high-speed image processing and visualization techniques for persistent surveillance applications.

Neva Ridge Technologies proposes techniques to reduce the computational complexity associated with GOTCHA SAR processing through innovative improvements to the GOTCHA processor flow. The proposed approach treats the exploitation chain systemically. Specific improvements include the implementation of a fast back projection algorithm that combines SAR image formation steps with the co-generation of change maps via an image-guided registration process. In addition a new processing concept of operations that can drastically reduce the number of calculations required to extract information of value will be developed and tested during Phase I. All of these approaches will be assessed in terms of feasibility to increasing the effective throughput of the GOTCHA SAR exploitation chain and will for the basis for a Phase II implementation plan. BENEFIT: The ability to improve high fidelity SAR image generation and exploitation throughput is of great interest within the military community, and there will be many opportunities to extend the research performed here to other DoD customers. Similarly, development of these capabilities will be of interest to the medical imaging field (e.g. CT scans) where real-time image formation combined with real-time registration, will be of great value.