Patent attributes
The present invention, in its various aspects and embodiments comprises a optical multi-discriminant (“OMD”) LADAR technique. The technique includes a method, comprising: receiving a dichroic, polarimetric optical signal simultaneously with radiation of a third wavelength from a field of view through a common aperture; and capturing three-dimensional, polarimetric data from each wavelength of the optical signal and two-dimensional data from the radiation. The technique also includes an apparatus, comprising: means for receiving a reflection of a polarimetric, dichroic optical signal and a second signal of a third wavelength, separating the optical signal from the second signal by wavelength, separating the dichroic constituents of the optical signal by wavelength, and separating the polarized elements of the dichroic constituents; and a common aperture through which the optical signal is transmitted and the reflection and the second signal are received.