Polarization Diversity Active Imaging: Mueller Matrix Imaging Polarimetry of Spheres and Cones
Abstract
This final report describes experiments into Polarization Diversity Active Imaging (PDAI) performed at the Physics Department of the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). Polarization Diversity Active Imaging illuminates a scene or target with a sequence of polarization states and then measures images of the polarization state scattered from a scene or target. These polarization images are then analyzed to provide additional details in the optical signature of objects by quantifying the object interaction with polarized light. These polarization images are then analyzed in the following sequence: (1) Measure the Muller matrix image associated with the scene, (2) Map the retardance, diattenuation, and depolarization images for the scene, (3) Estimate the plane of incidence and target orientation pixel by pixel, and (4) Obtain estimates of the refractive index of objects in the scene and other information relating to texture. With a successful Polarization Diversity Active Imaging apparatus, a series of polarization images would be acquired, the image would be displayed, and then we could overlay images of the retardance, diattenuation, depolarization, orientation of the surface normal, and estimates of refractive index. These additional images would be useful for image interpretation tasks such as clutter rejection, target identification, target classification, target orientation, etc. Polarization Diversity Active Imaging may prove useful for many difficult imaging tasks such as satellite imaging, plume/hard body identification, hard body/wake, unresolved objects, and overcoming camouflage. But this present contract specifically aims to evaluate if Polarization Diversity Active Imaging could measure the orientation of bodies such as satellites in space and estimate their refractive index.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA330963
Entities
People
- Elizabeth A. Sornsin
- Matthew H. Smith
- Pierre-yves Gerligand
- Russell A. Chipman
Organizations
- University of Alabama in Huntsville