Method of signal processing in a time-division LWIR image polarimetric sensor

We report on the method of signal processing in a passive long-wave infrared (LWIR) image polarimetric sensor. The method enables the detection of natural and manmade targets. It includes the error related to the rotation of the polarizing element during an image reading as well as permits the polarimeter operation without a classical phase synchronization loop. In addition, to verify the proposed method, a prototype of a time-division polarimetric system that operates in the 8-12 mu m band and is based on an uncooled microbolometric detector array was designed and developed. The entire system enabled us to successfully detect a few types of artificial objects from the distance of several tens of meters. The maximum image refresh rate was 5.45 Hz and could be further increased. (C) 2020 Optical Society of America