Infrared passive sensors

Abstract

Infrared imaging systems offer substantial advantages in their major applications in civilian and military fields. Let us list some of these applications:

• 1. the tracking down of thermal leaks and heat loss in buildings;

• 2. the prevention of mechanical accidents due to the overheating of moving parts;

• 3. the remote sensing by aircraft or satellite of grounds and crops through infrared multispectral analysis permitting the identification of the various crops being developed, as well as their State of health;

• 4. the cartography of continents, reliefs, warm and cold water bodies and water pollution;

• 5. medical thermography permitting, in particular, the location of hypo- and hyperthermia zones caused by poor vascularization, etc.;

• 6. planetary and space astronomy;

• 7. remote sensing for military purposes by surveillance satellites which, through the detection of warm zones on the ground, can reveal either abnormal industrial activity, or the assembling of vehicles or ships etc.;

• 8. firing control, short or long range missile target guidance.