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Hyperspectral imaging is an advanced digital imaging process that
non-invasively identifies unique spectral features normally
imperceptible to the unaided human eye. Through use of high-powered
imaging sensors, which collect light and heat from selected targets,
data is acquired and undergoes unique computer processing to
discriminate the individual elements of light. These techniques yield
information contained within the target for highlighting and
identification.
The resulting array of
color composites form a data "cube" that contains unique sequences of
the target substance's special spectral signature. This cube may be
digitally manipulated to extract highly detailed images of specific
substances. In essence, this procedure identifies a naturally occurring
"bar code." No two substances display the same arrangement of unique
spectra (colors) in the exact same manner.
Just as fingerprinting
has revolutionized the field of forensic identification of crime
suspects, hyperspectral imaging promises to change the way we detect
targets from the air, diagnose disease or even screen individuals for
drug use. When fully exploited, the possibilities for application of
this technology are vast.
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