Enhancement of Littoral Zone Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) through Multi-Spectral and Infrared (IR) Image Processing Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Topic No.: N091-021 Topic Title: Enhancement of Littoral Zone Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) through Multi-Spectral and Infrared (IR) Image Processing Proposal No.: N091-021-0452 Firm: Arete Associates P.O. Box 2607 Winnetka, California 91396 Contact: J. Williams Phone: (703) 413-0290 Web Site: www.arete.com Abstract: Techniques to retrieve militarily relevant parameters of the nearshore region using panchromatic or single-channel electro-optical (EO) data have been demonstrated. However, airborne sensors are being developed and fielded that collect multi-spectral data and the present-day methods do not take advantage of the added information contained in the multi-channel data. In addition, EO systems are restricted to daylight operations; a limitation overcome by infrared (IR) systems. Therefore, under this Phase I effort, existing data of the littoral zone from multi-spectral and IR imagers will be used to study the improvements for bathymetry and current retrievals using multi-spectral and IR processing compared to results obtained using panchromatic, EO imagery. In addition, a state-of-the art ocean-imaging model will be exercised to determine the expected SNR from observing the ocean surface with a multi-spectral imaging system. The overall objective of this SBIR program is to develop algorithms that utilize multi-spectral and / or IR imagery for enhanced ISR products in the littoral zone. Benefits: The end result of this program through Phase III would be an algorithm suite that provides enhanced ISR capabilities of the littoral zone to the Navy. The transitioned software package would contain algorithms developed through the course of this effort that utilize mulit-channel processing to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of weak signals, thereby increasing the accuracy and robustness of littoral zone ISR algorithms. The technology developed in Phase I an d Phase II would be used to pursue other rapid environmental assessment and ISR missions including: floating, broaching and submerged mine detection; land mine detection and geo-location; port and open seas security for high value units against bog hammers, ASVs, AUVs and swimmers; Assault Breaching System (ABS) support; wide area search and Rescue; rapid response to extreme events such as storms and tsunamis; precise tactical targeting; and other METOC missions such as currents in rivers, estuaries and inlets. Return