Aircraft and cloud detection software for autonomous observation system operation

Mitchell Larscheid; Jens Lautenbach

doi:10.1117/12.2651200

8 March 2023 Aircraft and cloud detection software for autonomous observation system operation

Mitchell Larscheid, Jens Lautenbach

Proceedings Volume 12428, Photonic Instrumentation Engineering X; 1242815 (2023) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2651200
Event: SPIE OPTO, 2023, San Francisco, California, United States

Conference Poster

Abstract

Progress in observational system automation is often constrained by the necessity of human involvement in its operation—limiting the potential of fully remote facilities. With observational installations such as those utilizing lidar or guide star assisted telescopes, a particular challenge is in outdoor laser use. Aircraft and clouds often necessitate the cessation of such laser operation, and in the past, these hazards have been best detected by on-site human observers. This paper instead describes how the utilization of computer vision enables hazard detection in a low-cost system, thus allowing for more efficient use of personnel time. The developed software makes use of computer vision functions such as thresholding, frame subtraction, contour detection, and background subtraction to record the presence of aircraft or clouds. This adaptable solution utilizes a live video feed to make rapid judgements on the safety and/or efficacy of an observation system’s use, thus enabling more complete automation of remote facilities. This system has been developed for use alongside peripheral implements that are engaged based on hazard detection statuses. One relevant example would be a laser shutter engaged to prevent unwanted usage when an aircraft is nearby. As the desire and possibility for such installations grows, the application of this kind of aircraft and cloud detection will continue to grow as well. While the software was designed to work in conjunction with laser-based observation systems, its adaptability also lends itself to applications in fields such as meteoritics and meteorology.

Citation Download Citation

Mitchell Larscheid and Jens Lautenbach "Aircraft and cloud detection software for autonomous observation system operation", Proc. SPIE 12428, Photonic Instrumentation Engineering X, 1242815 (8 March 2023); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2651200

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