Ian Robinson (Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems)
Keywords: Imaging
Abstract:
Wideband hyperspectral imaging (WHSI) systems collect simultaneous spectral and spatial imagery across a broad spectrum that includes the visible/near infrared (VNIR), short-wave infrared (SWIR), mid-wave infrared (MWIR), and long-wave infrared (LWIR) regimes. These passive optical systems capture reflected sunlight and thermal emissions from targets enabling the characterization of surface material, thermal properties, propellants, and gaseous emissions when targets are sunlit or in shadow. WHSI systems can provide imagery with fine spatial detail but do not require this fine spatial resolution to characterize targets.
It has been shown previously that multi-color photometry using distinct channels in the VNIR part of the spectrum can be used to identify objects that are similar to one another and perform some non-resolved object characterization (NROC). Wideband HSI systems collect a much richer signature from each object with the potential to fingerprint and identify specific space objects smaller than one pixel.
WHSI provides unique information on the properties of space objects. Its ability to characterize objects smaller than a pixel is extremely valuable in developing situational awareness of targets at GEO, MEO, and HEO. WHSI can be deployed with cost-efficient, small aperture telescopes or be used as adjuncts to existing and planned assets. This paper will describe the utility and capabilities of ground-based and space-based WHSI systems including rapid identification and characterization of space objects, mitigation of interference from the atmosphere, separation of glints from diffuse signatures, determination of status of space objects, and gauging aging effects.
Date of Conference: September 10-14, 2006
Track: Imaging