Advanced Optics Zoom Hyperspectral Sensor Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Topic No.: N08-064 Topic Title: Advanced Optics Zoom Hyperspectral Sensor Proposal No.: N081-064-0257 Firm: UltraSpectral Inc. 5701 Carmel Ave. NE Suite C Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113 Contact: Simon Perkins Phone: (505) 412-2267 Web Site: www.ultraspectral.com Abstract: UltraSpectral Inc. is leading a team consisting of Panavision Federal Systems, LLC and Opto-Knowledge Systems Inc. in proposing development of an innovative airborne visible through shortwave infrared (SWIR) hyperspectral imaging system which incorporates novel compound zoom (CZ) lens technology. Our system will be compact, lightweight and capable of day hyperspectral imaging and multispectral to broadband SWIR imaging during low light level and night conditions. The system will include hyperspectral analysis, camera control and visualization software to reduce operator workload and enhance situational awareness. In Phase I we will interface a commercial 300X magnification CZ lens with a scanning mirror-equipped hyperspectral camera and a pan/tilt mount, and will perform roof top target acquisition and tracking investigations. In Phase 2 the system will be optimized for airborne visible-SWIR imaging and a flight demonstration will be conducted. The system will provide significant advances in airborne hyperspectral surveillance and tracking, allowing hyperspectral sensors to be used in a continuous surveillance mode. The CZ will allow dynamic tradeoffs between field of view and spatial resolution to achieve both wide area scene monitoring and accurate target characterization. We anticipate strong interest in the system throughout DoD, other government agencies and commercial airborne remote sensing companies. Benefits: This SBIR is intended to develop a visible to short wave infrared (SWIR) compound zoom hyperspectral imaging system that will be lighter, more compact and higher performance than existing systems, and which includes novel 3D visualization capabilities for enhanced situational awareness. The system will be well suited for use on small airborne platforms as well as for standalone or modular use on new or existing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) suites found on larger aircraft. The system provides exceptional versatility by enabling full visible through SWIR band hyperspectral imaging in the day and multispectral or broad band SWIR imaging at night when hyperspectral operations are not feasible in those bands. Using the SWIR band for night imaging reduces or eliminates the need for thermoelectric coolers that are common for imaging at longer wavelengths. This saves weight, volume, electrical power and complexity, making hyperspectral imaging viable for small UAVs. Use of the compound zoom with the hyperspectral sensor provides flexibility in target detection and tracking and increases mission effectiveness, as the field of view can be rapidly changed without having to change altitude as is the case with systems using fixed optics. Additionally, enhancements to the user interfaces that include 3D visualization will improve situational awareness in the complex search and targeting scenarios encountered in urban environments. The airborne system has high potential for being adapted for ISR throughout the Department of Defense, including fielding of a modified version for use on ground vehicles and surface ships. The hyperspectral compound zoom system will also be in demand by commercial airborne remote sensing companies due to the compact size and the ability to optimize hyperspectral collections using the zoom. The SWIR band provides better performance in haze and smog and supplies additional information that augments the standard visible band data to increase the value of the geospatial information products being delivered to the customers. The compact form factor that is enabled by the compound zoom optics will also be attractive, as the system will in most cases be integrated with LIDAR, video and framing cameras. Civil applications include surveillance and targeting applications conducted on aircraft and ground vehicles operated by the Department of Homeland Security (e.g. Border Patrol) and law enforcement agencies. The ability to image through smoke and haze and to detect and identify targets and materials with distinct spectral signatures will be important. The hyperspectral-compound zoom system will be one of the most flexible and innovative imaging systems available and will meet the needs of a wide variety of DoD, civil and commercial customers. Return