MTF characterization and deconvolution of rapideye imagery

The Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), which is typically quoted at the Nyquist sampling limit [1], is a convenient parameter often used to characterize the performance of an optical sensor and its ensuing image quality. A higher MTF value implies both better resolution and greater image interpretability by both human operators and automated applications. It will be shown that significant improvements can be achieved by applying a deconvolution filter derived using on-orbit measurements of the RapidEye sensor's MTF.