Acquisition sensor technologies for improved performance in adverse weather conditions

A simulation study was conducted for the purpose of identifying technology improvements for an acquisition sensor for the detection of small objects in clear, sunlit cloud, fog, and mist conditions. Currently available mid-wave infrared (MWIR) and long-wave infrared (LWIR) technologies were studied. In addition, projected sensor technologies anticipated to be available in the near future, as well as idealized systems limited only by aperture size, integration time and instantaneous field of view (IFOV) were modeled. Both standard and polarimetric imaging sensors were included in the study. The Aero-Optical Prediction Tool (AerOPT) was used to model the performance of various sensors operating under the conditions of interest. Results indicate that LWIR systems may extend detection range in fog and mist environments and that polarimetry may reduce false alarm rate for sunlit cloud backgrounds. Importantly, polarimetric imaging does not appear to negatively impact detections.