An Adaptive Enhancement Algorithm for Infrared Images

A novel adaptive infrared image enhancement algorithm based on curve let transform is presented. Firstly, noisy infrared image with low contrast is decomposed in the curve let transform domain. Then, a new nonlinear mapping function is used to modify the curve let transform coefficients at each scale and direction without any parameter tuning. Finally, the enhanced image is reconstructed from the modified coefficients via inverse curve let transform. The enhancement is achieved by amplifying subtle features and improving contrast while eliminating noise. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm produces better enhanced images than existing algorithms.