Abstract: In a method of using a polarimeter for improved mapping and perception of objects on the ground, the polarimeter records raw image data to obtain polarized images of an area. The raw image data is processed to form processed images. The processed images are enhanced, and objects are detected and tracked. The polarimeter may be in a vehicle on the ground or in the air.

Abstract: In a method of determining the position of an object, raw image data of the sky is recorded using a celestial imaging unit. The last known position, orientation, date, and time data of the object are obtained, and the position of a celestial body is measured. A latitude and longitude of the object is determined by matching the measured celestial body position to the expected celestial body position based on the input parameters. A system for determining a new position of an object comprises a celestial imaging unit configured to record image data of the sky, a signal processing unit, and a signal processing unit configured to receive and store in memory the image data received from the celestial imaging unit. The signal processing unit filters the image to find the positions of celestial objects in the sky. The signal processing unit is further configured to use roll and pitch from an IMU, and date and time from a clock to determine the object's position (latitude and longitude).

Abstract: In a method of using a polarimeter for improved mapping and perception of objects on the ground, the polarimeter records raw image data to obtain polarized images of an area. The raw image data is processed to form processed images. The processed images are enhanced, and objects are detected and tracked. The polarimeter may be in a vehicle on the ground or in the air.

Abstract: In a method of determining the position of an object, raw image data of the sky is recorded using a celestial imaging unit. The last known position, orientation, date, and time data of the object are obtained, and the position of a celestial body is measured. A latitude and longitude of the object is determined by matching the measured celestial body position to the expected celestial body position based on the input parameters. A system for determining a new position of an object comprises a celestial imaging unit configured to record image data of the sky, a signal processing unit, and a signal processing unit configured to receive and store in memory the image data received from the celestial imaging unit. The signal processing unit filters the image to find the positions of celestial objects in the sky. The signal processing unit is further configured to use roll and pitch from an IMU, and date and time from a clock to determine the object's position (latitude and longitude).

Abstract: A method for detecting and tracking aerial objects and vehicles comprises recording raw image data using a polarimeter to obtain polarized images of the sky. The images are then corrected for non-uniformity, optical distortion, and registration. IR and polarization data products are computed, and the resultant data products are converted to a multi-dimensional data set for exploitation. Contrast enhancement algorithms are applied to the multi-dimensional imagery to form enhanced object images. The enhanced object images may then be displayed to a user, and/or an annunciator may announce the presence of an object.

Abstract: A method for detecting and tracking aerial objects and vehicles comprises recording raw image data using a polarimeter to obtain polarized images of the sky. The images are then corrected for non-uniformity, optical distortion, and registration. IR and polarization data products are computed, and the resultant data products are converted to a multi-dimensional data set for exploitation. Contrast enhancement algorithms are applied to the multi-dimensional imagery to form enhanced object images. The enhanced object images may then be displayed to a user, and/or an annunciator may announce the presence of an object.

Abstract: A method using Long Wave Infrared Imaging Polarimetry for improved mapping and perception of a roadway or path and for perceiving or detecting obstacles comprises recording raw image data using a polarimeter to obtain polarized images of the roadway or area. The images are then corrected for non-uniformity, optical distortion, and registration. IR and polarization data products are computed, and the resultant data products are converted to a multi-dimensional data set for exploitation. Contrast enhancement algorithms are applied to the multi-dimensional imagery to form enhanced object images. The enhanced object images may then be displayed to a user, and/or an annunciator may announce the presence of an object. Further, the vehicle may take evasive action based upon the presence of an object in the roadway.

Abstract: A method using Long Wave Infrared Imaging Polarimetry for improved mapping and perception of a roadway or path and for perceiving or detecting obstacles comprises recording raw image data using a polarimeter to obtain polarized images of the roadway or area. The images are then corrected for non-uniformity, optical distortion, and registration. IR and polarization data products are computed, and the resultant data products are converted to a multi-dimensional data set for exploitation. Contrast enhancement algorithms are applied to the multi-dimensional imagery to form enhanced object images. The enhanced object images may then be displayed to a user, and/or an annunciator may announce the presence of an object. Further, the vehicle may take evasive action based upon the presence of an object in the roadway.