Polarization Sensors

December 1, 2011

Polaris Sensor Technologies, Inc. (Huntsville, AL), has developed a polarization sensor technology that improves on infrared (IR) optical sensing tools. The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) funded Polaris through SBIR Phase II contracts in 2005 and 2006.

Because the polarization functionality removes undesirable glare and reflection of objects, the technology could enhance imaging systems for port security, cancer treatment, and environmental monitoring.

For port security, the Polaris sensor enables agents to find vessels in crowded harbor environments, or detect objects that do not produce significant radar signatures. The company’s sensor may also improve weather forecasting by better detecting water content in clouds.

Polaris, which additionally was funded by the National Institutes of Health, uses its spectral polarization sensor technology to help discriminate between malignant and nonmalignant skin lesions.

For more information on Polaris Sensor Technologies, visit http://info.hotims.com/34461-504  . (Source: David Chenault, Polaris Sensor Technologies/NTTC; MDA TechUpdate, Missile Defense Agency, National Technology Transfer Center Washington Operations).

---

---