Publications
Drift-insensitive dim-target detection using differential correlation
We investigate a dim-target-detection approach for pixellated focal-plane-arrays based on differential correlation detection. The change in the temporal correlation of the output signals between an illuminated pixel and a dark reference pixel is measured in real time over some number of samples and may enable more sensitive detection of dim targets whose signal amplitudes are on the order of the noise levels of the sensor. If successful, target detection may be possible with target signal-to-noise-ratios of less than 1 under practical conditions where dark drift may occur. © 2011 SPIE.