Specialised Imaging, a global leader in ultra-high-speed imaging technologies, has announced an exciting advancement in its renowned SI Trajectory Tracker. This enhancement introduces infrared (IR) tracking capabilities that allow researchers to study the thermal effects experienced by fast-moving projectiles in unprecedented detail.
Breaking New Ground in Projectile Research
Traditionally, the SI Trajectory Tracker has served as a cornerstone in the investigation of projectile aerodynamics during high-speed flight. One of its defining innovations is the use of a precisely synchronised rotating mirror system that follows the projectile’s path, effectively eliminating motion blur along the axis of travel. Coupled with a high-frame-rate digital camera, the system also reduces blur in the rotational and vertical axes, making it a powerful tool for clear, crisp imaging of even the fastest objects in motion.
As the global focus on hypersonic technologies intensifies, the need to capture more than just visible data from these high-velocity events has become evident. With speeds often exceeding Mach 5, projectiles can undergo intense aerodynamic heating, leading to significant structural and performance implications. Accurately capturing these thermal effects in real time requires robust and adaptable infrared imaging systems; a challenge Specialised Imaging is now addressing head-on.
A Flexible Infrared Solution
The newly introduced IR capabilities extend the functionality of the SI Trajectory Tracker far beyond visible-spectrum imaging. By incorporating a silver-coated tracking mirror with high reflectance up to 8 μm, the system is now capable of supporting infrared wavelengths, including those critical for studying thermal radiation.
Designed with a modular architecture, the Trajectory Tracker allows researchers to tailor the optical path to specific IR needs. The standard silica protective window can be replaced with:
- Sapphire glass, offering high transmission for wavelengths up to 5.5 μm, ideal for shortwave and mid-wave infrared (SWIR and MWIR) imaging.
- Germanium glass, enabling longwave infrared (LWIR) imaging and extending the system’s spectral range.
For applications that require imaging beyond 8 μm, the system’s silver-coated mirror can be swapped with a gold-coated variant, further enhancing its LWIR capabilities. This level of customisability makes the SI Trajectory Tracker one of the most versatile tools available for studying thermal effects in fast-moving projectiles.
Advanced Performance with Ease of Use
In addition to its optical enhancements, the SI Trajectory Tracker maintains the hallmark ease of deployment and rugged reliability that Specialised Imaging systems are known for. Housed on a sturdy, fully adjustable mount, the system ensures consistent, accurate tracking of in-flight objects, whether using a high-speed visible light camera or an IR-sensitive detector.
When paired with an appropriate IR camera, the upgraded system can now perform high-resolution imaging across the SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR bands. This capability opens up new research possibilities in defence, aerospace, and advanced materials testing—sectors where understanding the thermal signatures of high-speed projectiles is increasingly critical.
Enabling the Future of Hypersonics
The infrared-enabled SI Trajectory Tracker arrives at a pivotal moment in the evolution of projectile and missile technologies. As hypersonic weapons and spacecraft gain strategic importance, the demand for tools that can evaluate their performance under extreme thermal and aerodynamic stresses will only continue to grow.
By marrying ultra-high-speed visual tracking with flexible infrared capabilities, Specialised Imaging has delivered a powerful new solution for advanced projectile diagnostics. With this innovation, the company reinforces its commitment to supporting the most demanding scientific and engineering challenges of our time.
