Date: Sep 16, 2026
Time: 15:30-16:00 BST
Location: Fintry
Presenter: Sara Högnadóttir
Abstract:
IRnova's polarimetric imager combines quantum well infrared photodetector (QWIP) technology with a division-of-focal-plane (DoFP) architecture. Previous work suggested that augmenting thermal imaging with polarimetric modality yields detection advantages. This work builds on those results with quantitative analysis to validate the concept for drone detection against clutter. A metric-based analysis was performed targeting automated and semi-automated systems using localized threshold exceedance and modifications in radial power spectral density, both demonstrating a measurable benefit from polarimetric sensing. The ongoing upscaling of the FPA format at IRnova further supports these capabilities. Performance and first images from the polarimetric sensor in SXGA format on 10 µm pitch are presented. This advancement is expected to serve the demanding application of small object detection at long distances.
