Characterization and Calibration of Hyperspectral Imaging Devices Working Group (P4001) 

Title: Standard for Characterization and Calibration of Ultraviolet through Shortwave Infrared (250 nm to 2500 nm) Hyperspectral Imaging Devices

Scope: 

This standard defines performance characteristics for hyperspectral cameras, as well as metadata for hyperspectral images, for a set of use cases defined to represent a wide range of applications. The standard considers cameras operating in the “reflective domain” spectral range from 250 to 2500 nanometer wavelength, and applies to a defined set of hyperspectral camera architectures.

Background

Hyperspectral imaging is an innovative and exciting sensing technology with extraordinary capability for collection of information in a wide variety of applications. Current industry innovation is a testament to the creative power and imagination of the diverse community seeking to optimize and exploit this technology. However, current practices have significant shortcomings in the way hyperspectral camera performance is characterized. Establishing a common language for technical specification, testing criteria, and image metadata is essential for this technology to achieve its true market and utility potential. The P4001 working group needs passionate experts that are willing to lend their time and experience to transform this innovative imaging technique into reliable, predictable tools for science and industry. It is also the task of this group to reach out to as many in the field to solicit their contributions and recommendations.

The signal chain of a hyperspectral camera is complex, and the integrity of the recorded data may be degraded by a number of different systematic and random errors, as illustrated in the following flowchart.

[Figure from T. Skauli, IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and remote sensing, Vol. 60, P. 5635415 (2022)]

Mission Statement

P4001 will define characteristics that capture all significant aspects of hyperspectral camera performance. There are examples of extraordinary testing facilities (SIRCUS and others) which provide space-level and NMI testing quality. However, the P4001 group will propose tests that that do not require such expensive facilities, but enable anyone in the industry to measure these characteristics with with reasonable confidence using commonly available optical test equipment and reasonable effort.

Image data from hyperspectral cameras are processed with a wide variety of exploitation methods to extract desired information products for various applications. These products have the potential to impact many aspects of science, industry and society, but there is not a consensus on what metadata should be provided with the image. P4001 will define a set of metadata pertaining to the camera which provide for optimal extraction of information.