Polarization imaging holds promise for providing significant improvements in contrast for target detection and discrimination. It has been demonstrated that manmade objects have a significantly stronger polarized signal than natural backgrounds. There is also strong promise for improved target-background contrast with active imaging polarimeters, operating similarly to a LADAR system. SAGE proposes to develop a fast (>30 Hz) imaging polarimeter with an active mode capability in the infared. The proposed polarimetric LADAR system will serve as a prototype for a potential KV sensor & weapons system. The active polarimeter design, to be completed for Phase I, will include component specifications, data reduction algorithms, and a thorough performance analysis. The prototype instrument will be designed to be compatible with an active polarimetric sensor architecture, a modular system that will provide for expansion to other wavebands for related military and commercial applications. Additionally, SAGE proposes to incorporate superpixel technology at the detector. The concept will be modeled against microgrid technology for performance and risk. Superpixel technology offers several advantages over microgrids including elimination of scatter and obscuration of the incident light at the focal plane array. Anticipated Benefits/Commercial Applications: It is anticipated that the imaging polarimeter will significantly enhance target detection on a wide variety of military seekers and be directly applicable into the commercial market for search and rescue, security, and nondestructive evaluation of structural materials and protective coatings.
Keywords: electro-optics, polarization, LADAR, infared, imaging, superpixel, tracking, BRDF
