Abstract: An image stabilization system and method. The inventive system (100) includes an image sampling circuit (230) mounted on a platform (400) for sampling an image in response to timing control signals and outputting a plurality of imaging signals in response thereto. An azimuth resolver (310) detects vibration of the platform and providing a signal in response thereto. A microprocessor (540) adjusts the timing control signals to cause the image sampling circuit (230) to sample the image and thereby compensate for an effect of vibration on the image. In the illustrative embodiment, the microprocessor (540) includes software for compensating for vibration that causes image offset, compressed images, expanded images, and compression and expansion within a single field. The invention provides image stabilization in a purely electronic manner without the need for any moving parts that would typically require control hardware and a significant amount of space.

Abstract: Systems for improving the quality of video images generated by a forward-looking infrared detector array include mechanisms for dynamically adjusting the output signals from one or more non-linear detectors in such an array. These systems and methods utilize the output signals from two or more detectors adjacent to each non-linear detector to provide accurate DC restoration to the signals from such non-linear detectors.