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From: jws@thumper.mlb.semi.harris.com (James W. Swonger)
Newsgroups: sci.research,sci.electronics,sci.physics,sci.environment
Subject: Re: Infrared detection of wildlife
Keywords: infrared,detection,research,elephant
Message-ID: <1990Nov27.133123.5370@mlb.semi.harris.com>
Date: 27 Nov 90 13:31:23 GMT
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 If the background temperature is going to be high (like tropical) then
it will be harder to see the elephants - not much thermal contrast. For
your test, be sure to pick a hot night so you don't end up with a system
which only works at the zoo.

 Night vision systems based on image intensification or with an active IR
illuminator and operated by a spotter would probably be effective but I
don't think a passive IR, automated system would.

 Some CCTV cameras may have enough sensitivity in the IR band to be useful
with some modifications. If you can get a CCD camera and put a thermoelectric
cooler on the back of the CCD you can push the thermal noise down. Then with an
IR filter you have a cheapie mid-IR vision system (you will still probably want
an IR illuminator for optional use).
an IR illuminator for optional use).