Optronics sensor development using an imaging simulation system

Extensive use of modelling and simulation in the development of electro-optical sensor systems results in reduced risk, lower cost and shorter development time scales. In order to develop, evaluate and optimise system performance under diverse environmental conditions a radiometrically calibrated imaging scene simulator is required. A brief overview of such a simulation system is presented, focussing on physics-based scene radiometry and weapon system sensor modelling. Application of the simulator in the development and evaluation of infrared missile seeker sensor systems is presented.