BAE Systems announced its backside-illuminated (BSI) “Hawkeye” HWK1411 ultra-low-light image sensor, enabling market-leading night vision capabilities with reduced size, weight, and power.
The 1.6-megapixel sensor provides high-performance imaging capabilities in all light conditions and is optimal for battery-powered soldier systems, unmanned platforms, and targeting and surveillance applications.
HWK1411 is the first low-light complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor to capture imagery during overcast starlight conditions. It combines a large photon-collection array with world-class light sensitivity (quantum efficiency), the ability to see small changes in contrast (low read noise), and reduced signal noise from electricity (low dark current).
“HWK1411 replaces larger and heavier legacy technology, and allows the military market to transition to the digital domain, creating a path to next-gen systems for the future,” said Robyn Decker, director of Sensor Solutions at BAE Systems. “Capturing digital images is the first step toward delivering data fusion and augmented reality technology that will transform how warfighters perceive the battlespace in ultra-low-light conditions.”