Real-time Spectral Band Optimization for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Hyperspectral Camera Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Topic No.: N08-155 Topic Title: Real-time Spectral Band Optimization for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Hyperspectral Camera Proposal No.: N082-155-0710 Firm: Applied Science Innovations, Inc. 185 Jordan Road Troy, New York 12180 Contact: Mikhail Gutin Phone: (518) 833-6897 Web Site: http://www.appscience.com Abstract: To meet the need of the Navy in a hyperspectral imaging system with an automated analysis algorithm for optimum detection of specified target features, Applied Science Innovations, Inc. proposes development of the Coded-Aperture Hyperspectral Imager with Real-time Spectral Band Optimization (CAHIRSO). Communication channels of small tactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS) fall short of the bandwidth requirement of existing hyperspectral imaging systems. Communication hardware with adequate bandwidth exceeds the volume and weight allowance of such UAS. The patent-pending CAHIRSO hyperspectral camera with image formation and spectral selectivity will automatically control the type and amount of data to be transferred to the ground, in near real-time. The complete imaging system will be contained in a 4.75 inch diameter by 12 inch in length cylinder or smaller package. The spectrum coverage will be from 350 nm to 1.7 micron, with automatic gain control, manual gain control (addressable), selectable bandwidth, feature extraction, and low power. Phase I will establish feasibility of the CAHIRSO concept. In Phase II, a functional pre-production CAHIRSO prototype will be developed, demonstrated, and delivered to the Navy for evaluation and use, ready for UAS installation. In Phase III, CAHIRSO design will be further developed for integration on board UAS. Benefits: The proposed CAHIRSO will feature integrated near real-time solution capability of determining the optimal multi-spectral bands for target detection, storing complete mission data, and parsing resultant data and metadata for transmission of hyperspectral imaging system. An automated analysis algorithm will tune the hyperspectral output stream for optimum detection of specified target features in the given environment and store the complete data set for post mission analysis on the ground. The complete system will be low power (<20W), lightweight (less than 4 pounds), robust and provide a high reliability of determining the correct transmission bands for desert, forest, and marine environments on board the UAS. Return