Phase II: Simulation of Round-the-Clock Polarization-based Target Discrimination by an Airborne Sensor from .4 to 14 microns

The goal of PSI's Phase II program is to develop prototype models to enable an improved theoretical understanding of the physics behind measured spectral polarization signatures, both indoors and outdoors, and to use this increased knowledge for militaryand commercial applications. Based on the innovative tools and algorithms created during Phase I, PSI will first develop the Indoor Spectral Polarization Signature (ISPS) model. The Outdoor Spectral Polarization Signature (OSPS) model will then bedeveloped as an extension of ISPS to include the effects of the outdoor environment on measured spectral polarization signatures. To transition the knowledge and understanding gained from ISPS and OSPS prototype models, PSI will then develop a SpectralPolarization-based Enhanced Contrast Simulation (SPECS). SPECS will simulate polarized grayscale images of landscapes and targets within those landscapes, as observed by an airborne staring array over the optical spectral range over 24 hours. SPECS willallow the user to interactively change polarization characteristics (visible and thermal wavelengths, polarizer tilt-angle axis) over various sun/moon positions and angles of approach to determine which combination is optimal for target detection. SPECSwill provide the ability to investigate improvements to target detection and discrimination using passive polarized sensors over the optical spectrum.