I. OVERHEAD PHOTOGRAPHY/IMAGERY INTERPRETATOIN PROCESS RESEARCH

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: NGA Records (Formerly NIMA)
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP78B05171A000500010007-7
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: K
• Document Page Count: 42
• Document Creation Date: December 28, 2016
• Document Release Date: August 26, 2005
• Sequence Number: 7
• Content Type: REQ

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A. Program- Objective-#t's '.. 7 ,Identify, evaluate, and auantifv
the human factors element of the imagery exploitation process so
that such knowledge can be utilized to increase the effectiveness
of the process; determine the intelligence value of -~h" conventional
and unconventional imagery. 25X1
Discussion: The process of imagery exploitation is bound at one
extreme by the needs of the analyst in the intelligence community
and at the other extreme by the design characteristics of the
collection system. An integral part ofNh? ' reed is an appreciation
Me vo,ious I~~Y~'.S o
for the intelligence value pa-ca: r magery. Within the
SI` ilI C ( ' k
process itself, Pp _ l& factors are the quality and character of
the film or imagery medium, the equipment, procedures, and techniques
used in the exploitation process, and the characteristics, attitudes,
and skills of the imagery analyst.
This program addresses both the intelligence value of imagery and
the human factors relating to it. In the latter case, it is designed
to determine those human characteristics, inherent and acquired,
which influence the imagery exploitation process and to apply this
knowledge in understanding and improving the process; to develop
criteria to improve the selection and training of imagery analysts
and others involved in the exploitation process; to identify those
areas where modifications to equipment, facilities, or the environ-
ment will improve the efficiency or effectiveness of human performance;
to insure, based upon hunan factors principles, that the design and use of
pp Bs/gyp
Declassification Review by NGA/DoD
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exploitation equipment is compatible with and takes maximum advantage
of human traits, habits, and characteristics; and to define the human
aspects involved in the assessment of image quality.
In the case of intelligence value, this program is directed
toward the accumulation of data that will allow an objective determination
of what information, additional to that provided by conventional black and
white photography, is provided by unconventional collection systems and,
subsequently, an evaluation by the analytical community of the intelligence
value of that additive information.
B. ProLram Progress
1. Human Factors
Comparative tests to measure the performance of imagery analysts
and photogrammetrists on selected mensuration tasks were
designed and administered; the results of these tests have
served as a basis for decision in the areas of equipment
purchase and procedural changes.
Vb. Through a controlled test of mensuration performance, a
statistically sound approach to mensuration accuracy state-
ments was developed; this approach has increased the level
of confidence of Center dimensional error statements.
/c. A comparison of achievements and skills was made between
on-the-job experience and the 12-week training program for new
imagery analysts, the Defense Sensor Interpretation and Application
Training Program; the findings resulted in a dedsion to schedule
all new imagery analysts for this training program.
C' d. A preliminary validation of an Agency-administered imagery
interpretation test battery for use in evaluating appli-
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0
0 e.
cants was undertaken, and development of an Imagery Analyst
Target Knowledge Inventory was initiated. This inventory
will serve has the basis for development of an in-house
training course supplemental to the Defense Training Program.
Utilizing a five-year projection approach, the functions
of the imagery analyst and collateral support officer
were analyzed to determine possible areas of applicability
for automation of manual operations.
f. In the future, photographic imagery may well be supplemented
for analysis purposes by line-scan imagery (cathode ray
tube). An_ elementary study was undertaken to determine
the level of resolution of line scan imagery, as compared
with photographic imagery, deemed necessary for exploitation
/the imagery analyst
g. A review of articles pertaining to imagery exploitation
research was conducted, and those relevant to Center operations
were abstracted. Contacts were established with industrial
and governmental research and development facilities for the
purpose of obtaining, on a continuing basis, human factors
information pertinent to exploitation equipment design. The
PI Equipment Human Engineering Design Guide, a summary of
physiological and engineering information applicable s the
/-
design of imagery exploitat hardwgre, was updated by
inclusion of specifiesections pertaining to acoustics and
comparators.
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h. Recent studies have indicated that the convergence angle
of microstereojpcope eyepieces might influence visual
performance; preliminary research was under ken7a the
effect of the convergence angle of optical instruments
on imagery analysis.
2. Intelligence Value.,.-??
a. Two pilot studies, undertaken to determine the level of
resolution necessary for satisfactory exploitation of
4
IM(A / / to meet existing intelligence requirements, were completed;
a third such study is now in process.
b. A project has been initiated to obtain at 25X1
n n 9,a
different resoluti
071 1' with the necessary ground 25X1
truth information. This effort will provide an opportunity
to correlate ground truth with the imagery obtained; it
also will provide the data necessary to conclude what additive
E
or comp mentary information is provided by an 25X1
compared to black and white imagery.
C. Program Plans=
1. Human Factors t.-.-
a. Alternatives ~a as ^: ? s bLIU. r_F,a ,_,o.=Q_r_tz_,,
w -11-1a-dime red rtiowarc~;dev lop ng omed,ium- accuracy, q ap ,
.me~ant//~~too~.A...,z.,t.lN~~i,lYYgap: .het S"in-~oe~~me i?!V~t o~trltrn-rv~C.pr~u rt
,.a td,:yS.,....ar~iP-uraayE'.' ea tT u.J.,. .it- r'4bCXt tL.il`~Y.e-F3: -t a-:1: 1 :.
~b;le-.~atad_ zn=w claPt In -o Ms ~_an~tx k~r~enLs t ,e ntl r ,'y,
i;e _iagery:..,
Discussion: Knowledge gained from research under the first
project objective, more sophisticated mensuration require-
ments, increased imagery resolution, and new collection
systems all combine to dictate a need for upgrading pre-
sent equipment and the development of new equipments for
the photogrammetrist.
Equipment for. Imagery Analyst Object,,,./(FY 776)
Develop measuring instruments that are accurate, reliable,
and relatively maintenance free for use by the imagery
analyst.
%Ra- .-afia-:fie-: Certain mensuration requirements can be satisfied
by the imagery analyst and need not require the time of:-a
photogrammetrist or the utilization of highly sophisticated
equipments. With the anticipated increase in workload for
the imagery analyst, the trade-off here will be the rapidity
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of the response obtained versus the time and effort ap-
plied against the requirement. Such a situation points
up the need for relatively simple, quick-response but
accurate instrument.
Automation of Mensuration Objective (FY 476)
Identify 'poten'tial applications of automation to the
mensuration process and implement the most promising
applications.
Discussion: There appear to be areas in the mensuration
process that offer opportunity for automation, and even-
tually manpower savings. One such area, "pointing"--
placing the reference point on the extremes of the image
to be measured -- is a tedious and time-consuming manual
operation. By..u#z ~ttinfvat ~r-alpatrr
~~s~m?=~~~ta~e~?~;~i~-.~par~~t1~z~:~'ut-ic:~=~~~~?~
iy? h a mier Qn tome e . itwapp A the t Y .
B. Program Progress
There has been considerable progress toward these objectives
to date. In 1971, under multiple year funding, a precision
stereo comparator will be completed and delivered to the
Center. This instrument is intended for ultra-precise work
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D RA F T
by the photogrammetrists and incorporates many advanced
features such as .5 micron accuracy, automatic correlation
of the stereo imagery and the capability to use roll film
on large fo,.-ma.t stages) i.e., the original negative for
maximum fidelity.
utilizing FY 68 funding, an on-line comparator was produced
for use by the imagery analyst. This is a stereo instrument
for measuring stereo images on cut film chips and is designed
for use in ~detailed interpretation. It can be used to measure
heights and xL-A on-line to the Center's centralized UNIVAC )9)+
computer. It is a medium-precision instrument with accuracy
in the 2 micron region.
A digitized light table for use by the imagery analyst has
been developed under FY 69 funding. This instrument, which
will undergo operational testing during the next few months,
is connected on-line to the Center's 494 computer and will
permit immediate readout of either ground dimensions or film
coordinates from roll film while the film is still on a
standard operational light table.
FY 69 and FY 70 funds were utilized to support certain criti-
w
cal in-house studies of mensuration errors and how they effect
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D R A F T
mensuration procedures and equipment. The information thus
gained will be utilized as a foundation for future studies
for the future development of advanced mensuration instrumen-
tation.
C. Program Plans
1. Technological Base
(a). Alternatives
(1) The majority of the work on mensuration error
analysis could be done-in-house, utilizing operational
personnel when and if man-hours are available. Tnis
approach has disadvantages because of its-potential
drain on limited in-house assets and the extended
time frame for completion of the study.
(2) The major portion of mensuration error analysis
could be contracted out. The major disadvantage is
that specific tasks related to this analysis still.
require major inputs of man-hours from operational
personnel.,
(3) A hybrid approach under which certain key tasks,
utilizing in-house assets supplemented by contractual
support in the other area could be utilized. A
major disadvantage is that a rather significant
amount of coordination between the in-house efforts
the the contractual efforts is required.
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D R A F T
(b). Approa.cbelected
The hybrid approach was selected in an attempt to
obtain the advantages while minimizing the disadvan-
tages of the other two alternatives.
2. Equipment for the Photogrammetrist
(a). Alternatives
There l #t alternativ,,s/here. ~eie~/con-
.a objectives;~ accet"_
tinue as programmed
current equipment as being adequate.
(b). Approac 'elected
\ce1eC . ~1e_ PC.c3'Y~cQ ~R 1 1+ '~C~,-tw' {' ( C.att~a .
The Center mus' L n to evelc;p -advaaeed
G (!lull ~n P. c ,~i rnCiv = (d ,fliv c ~. cQ c r c~ c w+.{J{ . /12.! - fir, c. KI U
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-
ona
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w, . ~.{Yt its iL~t1 c ~r.. Cam` " l f } r .fit ~1) & NL a J Ci .~.~-
3. Equipment for th Photointerpreier 4,."? .-...._-
(a).
2 f
f
t
i
i
Alternatives
(1) To have the photogrammetrists continue to make
all measurements.
(2) To develop the necessary instruments for use
by the imagery analyst.
JKII
(b). Approa c
Selected
The second alternative is more realistic in view
of the requirement and the efficiencies that it
will afford.
~'LQ~?l~C.c._-t-n.4.) , .~.d..Fi~ '\.l;?~ y....f.s.-A,~. .~ > ',".'?::`~1~f} r'4.O~.KI..,..
t `fie _ f
s \, i }IY ~~C-
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D R A F `T'
Automation of Mensuration
(a). Alternatives
(1)
Continue to utilize present manual techniques.
(2) Attempt to develop equipment and techniques to
implement a more automated approach to the problem.
(b). Approach" 'elected
Alternative two was selected because of expected
payoffs in the quality and speed of measurements) ct
with possible manpower savings.
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OVERHEAD PHOTOGRAPI-IY REPRODUCTION
A. Program Objective t(
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Develop an economical higher-speed
reproduction capability for present and planned conventional
imagery exploitation materials.
Discussion: The NPIC imagery exploitation process requires an in-
house capability to rapidly reproduce multiple copies of selected
imagery. Predicted increases in both volume and types of imagery
will require additional manpower, equipment, and floor space if
the present processing system is maintained. The development of
an improved processing and reproduction capability will reduce the
need for additional resources in this area during the period
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FY W-76.
1. Conventional Imagery Objective r (FY 70-74+) / Develop a high-
speed, compact system for reproducing black and white imagery
(film and paper) at a product quality level at least equal
to the present wet-process system.
Discussion: The research and development of a dry-processing
system has been unae wa since 1965. This type y of system offers
several advantages over the present wet-processing system;e,cy,
equipment units required are approximately equal in number.
to present units but are significantly smaller in size,
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thus affording savings in space; dry-heaxe3s,::-_ ..----J
liquid chemicals in bulk, thus avoiding the in-
"/ Gt fl c ~i `~GTr G~ l r - ti J
herent hazards of chemical '~hossibil_ity
of additional space savings' ?l compact dry-process
equipment is less complicated to operate than the wet-
process equipment and', 'provides a capability for the Center
to decentralize part of its reproduction system, thus
effecting manpower savings in both the photo lab and
imagery analyst areas.
2. Unconventional Imagery Objective (FY 71-76)
Develop a capability to accommodate the Center's needs to
rapidly reproduce required quantities of high-quality
materials from)
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Discussion: ~ ' .~.,~.~ .. ~ ~nv~-r~~~ c~>-~~~- 1 m ~~w~~l ~'v/c~
:htst`o Ntie Center w111
increase. Reproduction of these materials is slow and
far more complex thah standard black and white imagery
~:tgh:_ tktht_1Usta Dry-processing
with its inherent advantages may eventually be applicable
- r
POI Mt_
to unconventional imagery reproduction. However-,A It is
necessary toAcontinu research and development inrywet-
processing system.
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B. Program Progress
1. Conventional Imagery Reproduction
Dry-process research and development achievements to date
continue to indicate significant,pay-off. They include
the followingR
(a) A pilot production of film materials teN of good
quality lpW.S
ac.~~