Thermal Imager Range: Predictions, Expectations, and Reality

Imaging system range defines the maximal distance at which a selected object can be seen and perceived following surveillance task perception criteria. Thermal imagers play a key role in long-range surveillance systems due to the ability to form images during the day or night and in adverse weather conditions. The thermal imager range depends on imager design parameters, scene and transmission path properties. Imager range prediction is supported by theoretical models that provide the ability to check range performance, compare range performances for different systems, extend range prediction in field conditions, and support laboratory measurements related to range. A condensed review of the theoretical model’s genesis and capabilities is presented. We applied model-based performance calculation for several thermal imagers used in our long-range surveillance systems and compared the results with laboratory performance measurement results with the intention of providing the range prediction in selected field conditions. The key objective of the paper is to provide users with reliable data regarding expectations during a field mission.