The Effects of Infrared Sensor Wavelength on Panchromatic Image Colorization Performance

Abstract

Infrared (IR) imaging sensors, designed to detect the wavelength range between 0.9µm and 14µm, offer unique advantages over daylight cameras in consumer, industrial, and defense applications. However, IR images lack natural color information and can be challenging for individuals without sensor-specific training to interpret. Consequently, transforming IR images into perceptually realistic color images represents a valuable research endeavor with significant commercial potential. Recently, various studies utilizing deep neural networks for colorizing single-mode (near-IR or thermal) infrared images have been reported. This article will apply a common neural network architecture to images captured with different imaging modes (near-IR, thermal IR, and low-light) for colorization and compare the results. These experiments will examine the influence of perceived wavelength on the colorization process. © 2024 IEEE.