MIST: An operational ground surveillance camera

An aerial high resolution wide angle camera system capable of 3D mapping was developed with a possible application in assisting DHS border security and military reconnaissance. The goals of this system were to survey vast areas with a wide angle camera system and provide precise coordinate information. This system was designed with an UAV in mind as the flight vehicle, taking the risk away from pilots with a reduction to the cost of operation. Currently, existing aerial camera systems cannot provide wide angle and high resolution imagery from a UAV. Utilizing proven, state-of-the-art imaging methods and off-the-shelf components, a versatile and reliable camera system was developed by VisionMap Ltd. The camera, MIST, is a lightweight, high resolution, digital vertically and oblique-looking, photogrammetric-certified payload for tactical unmanned aircraft systems (T-UAS). Evaluation of the MIST was carried out by collaboration between West Virginia University researchers and VisionMap of Israel. An experiment was performed to collect high resolution 3D imagery, determine the accuracy of coordinates using known ground points, and to test the function of the camera using the MIST over Morgantown, WV, home of West Virginia University. Results were a set of very high 3D resolution images and high accuracy mapping points. This paper will discuss the current state-of-the-art-camera systems capable of UAV operation, the uniqueness and functionality of MIST, and the experiment performed at WVU using MIST.