Low-Contrast Imaging

Ralph H. Wight

doi:10.1117/12.955376

8 August 1977 Low-Contrast Imaging

Ralph H. Wight

Proceedings Volume 0101, Airborne Reconnaissance: Tactical/Real Time II; (1977) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.955376
Event: 1977 SPIE/SPSE Technical Symposium East, 1977, Reston, United States

Abstract

The evolution of electro-optical sensors has caused a quiet revolution in the imaging of low-contrast objects. In a practical sense, even the term "low-contrast" has required redefinition, since contrast ratios such as 1.6:1, which was the official "low-contrast" for photographic systems, no longer qualify as "low" for electro-optical systems which, by means of precise D.C. level background subtraction, can operate in the domain of contrast ratios around 1.01:1 and below. Since a contrast ratio such as 1.01:1 is below the contrast resolution threshold of the eye, the invisible can literally be made visible. This paper reports upon some of the fundamental constraints placed by nature on the development of such low-contrast imaging systems. It further describes the evolution of the specifications for an advanced technology Time Delay and Integration (TD I ) type of area imagery Charge Coupled Device (CCD) which is being developed to meet present and future needs for this type of electro-optical sensor system.

Citation Download Citation

Ralph H. Wight "Low-Contrast Imaging", Proc. SPIE 0101, Airborne Reconnaissance: Tactical/Real Time II, (8 August 1977); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.955376

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