Optical-Theorem-Based Holography for Target Detection and Tracking

The development of robust, real-time optical methods for the detection and tracking of particles in complex, multiple-scattering media is a problem of practical importance in a number of fields, including environmental monitoring, air quality assessment, and homeland security. In this paper, we develop a holographic, optical-theorem-based method for the detection of particles embedded in complex environments where wavefronts undergo strong multiple scattering. The proposed methodology is adaptive to a complex medium, which is integral to the sensing apparatus and thereby enables constant monitoring through progressive adaptation. This feature, along with the holographic nature of the developed approach, also renders (as a byproduct) real-time imaging capabilities for the continuous tracking of particles traversing the region under surveillance. In addition, the proposed methodology also enables the development of customized sensors that leverage a controllable complex multiple-scattering medium and the derived holographic sensing technology for real-time particle detection and tracking. We demonstrate, with the help of realistic computer simulations, holographic techniques capable of detecting and tracking small particles under such conditions and analyze the role of multiple scattering in enhancing detection performance. Potential applications include the identification of aerosolized biological substances, which is critical for biosecurity, and the rapid detection of hazardous airborne particles in confined or densely populated areas.