DARPA to create fisheye optical imaging sensor

JANUARY 4--Scientists at the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA; Arlington, VA, USA) are asking industry to develop a small hemispherical optical imaging sensor array with a 120° field of view and a speed of 60 frames/s. The idea is to demonstrate a FPA integrated on a hemispherical surface that will enable high-performance imagers that are smaller and with wider fields of view than are available today. DARPA scientists want a prototype with a 1-cm radius of curvature with 1 million pixels.

DARPA officials say they expect to award several contracts and are encouraging collaborative efforts and teaming. The technical point of contact for the program is Devanand Shenoy, e-mail: [email protected]. For more information contact DARPA at [email protected]. The deadline for proposals is 12 Feb. 2007.