Thermal imaging atmospheric effects and image restoration

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this paper, a general and inclusive framework for understanding and characterizing the atmospheric effects in the thermal infrared on imaging systems is presented. This includes separation of the atmospheric distortions to their main two ingredients: optical turbulence, and scattering and absorption by atmospheric particulates. A basic and correct understanding of those effects enables the development of prediction models for the atmospheric turbulence and aerosol MTFs. Here, both models are implemented for real-time thermal image restoration, with the prior knowledge of standard meteorological parameters, and specifications of the imaging system. Examples of such restorations are presented and the uniqueness of the restoration method is discussed. In addition, based on the Johnson chart criteria, object resolution probabilities are discussed with the inclusion of atmospheric degradation of the received image with and without subsequent image restoration. The most important conclusion is that knowledge of the expected atmospheric MTF is crucial for the system designer.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)366-385
Number of pages20
JournalProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume2268
DOIs
StatePublished - 14 Sep 1994
EventInfrared Spaceborne Remote Sensing II 1994 - San Diego, United States
Duration: 24 Jul 199429 Jul 1994

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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