Remote Sensing Techniques in the Infrared Region of the Electromagnetic Spectrum
Document ID: 89
Master's Thesis
The Pennsylvania State University
The Graduate School
Department of Electrical Engineering
Abstract
This study presents an overall review of remote sensing in the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum including explanations of how infrared radiative energy is created, emitted, and detected. Examples of infrared sources and detectors are presented with a detailed design example of how a scanning infrared camera can be used for midwave infrared measurements. Further, the study reviews how controlled emission and measurement of infrared energy can be used for Light Detecting And Ranging (LIDAR) applications. A modification of the Penn State Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) model was used in this study in an attempt to simulate the effects on performance due to transmitting beam misalignment – an important factor when implementing DIAL lidar theory into a commercial system. Simulation findings were closely reviewed for validity and subsequently compared to data acquired by the DIAL lidar used in the ITT Space Systems Airborne Natural Gas Emission Lidar (ANGEL) service. Significant correlation between the simulation results and data measurements were found by the study and thus provide validation that can be used for future performance estimates, or for troubleshooting applications.
| Citation: | D. M. Brown, "Remote Sensing Techniques in the Infrared Region of the Electromagnetic Spectrum", The Pennsylvania State University, Master's Thesis, May 2005, 48 pages |