Real-time anisoplanatic convolution methods for laser-based scene generation: closed-loop focal-plane-array test and evaluation methods

This paper describes recent technology at Arnold Engineering Development Center to provide real-time closed-loop image synthesis. Laser-based direct-write scene generation methods are used to simulate dynamic sensor operation and complex infrared scenes. New photonic image- synthesis methods employ image-to-object Whittaker-Shannon sampling, anisoplanatic optical convolution by quasi-isoplanatic spatial decomposition, and high-speed digital electronics for acousto-optic modulation.