A High-Dynamic-Range-Based Approach for the Display of Hyperspectral Images

This letter presents a new approach for hyperspectral image visualization based on high-dynamic-range (HDR) image processing. The proposed approach is inspired by techniques that are used to display HDR images on low-dynamic-range media by reducing the contrast, yet preserving the image detail. This is the first time this concept is utilized for the display of hyperspectral images. In the presented approach, an edge-preserving filter, called the bilateral filter, is used to extract the base and detail images, and the final image is reconstructed by reducing contrast in the base image but preserving the detail, so that the significance of the detail image is enhanced. It is shown that the proposed approach improves the visual appearance and perceived detail of hyperspectral images.