RADIANCE LIBRARY FORECASTING FOR TIME-CRITICAL HYPERSPECTRAL TARGET DETECTION SYSTEMS

A method and structure that inputs atmospheric forecast information from the atmospheric forecast database based on current, real time atmospheric measurements. The hyperspectral detection processing unit also inputs at least one selected reflectance library from the reflectance library database, and data collection and sensor parameters from the sensor. With this information, the hyperspectral detection processing unit employs a model to produce at least one mission radiance library during the mission planning phase. Then, during the actual mission execution, the sensor is used to collect the hyperspectral data and the comparator can immediately compare the hyperspectral data to the mission radiance library to identify features and/or targets.