Abstract: Embodiments are directed to systems and methods for imaging an object obscured by a distorted medium. The embodiments include an object emitting electromagnetic energy due to rapid heating. The electromagnetic energy for the object passes through the distorted medium. Embodiments combine an adaptive optics system, an adaptive holographic plates/filters system, an optical based multi-wavelength sensor system, and a phase diversity processor system to provide a corrected image of the object obscured by the distorted medium.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to detecting an underwater object from an air-based system. The air-based system is associated with at least one controller. A broadband acousto-optic signal detection device is associated with the air-based platform. The broadband acousto-optic signal detection device is configured to emit a laser beam at an underwater object. The laser beam terminates at the underwater object and reflects back as a return laser beam. The broadband acousto-optic signal detection device is configured to detect and receive the return laser beam.