Advanced synthetic image generation models and their application to multi/hyper-spectral algorithm development

The need for robust image data sets for algorithm development and testing has prompted the consideration of synthetic imagery as a supplement to real imagery. The unique ability of synthetic image generation (SIG) tools to supply per-pixel truth allows algorithm writers to test difficult scenarios that would require expensive collection and instrumentation efforts. In addition, SIG data products can supply the user with "actual" truth measurements of the entire image area that are not subject to measurement error thereby allowing the user to more accurately evaluate the performance of their algorithm. Advanced algorithms place a high demand on synthetic imagery to reproduce both the spectro-radiometric and spatial character observed in real imagery. This paper describes a synthetic image generation model that strives to include the radiometric processes that affect spectral image formation and capture. In particular, it addresses recent advances in SIG modeling that attempt to capture the spatial/spectral correlation inherent in real images. The model is capable of simultaneously generating imagery from a wide range of sensors allowing it to generate daylight, low-light-level and thermal image inputs for broadband, multi- and hyper-spectral exploitation algorithms.