Stray light, also referred to as flare, is any light that reaches the focal plane via a non-design optical path. It can cause contrast loss (decrease in dynamic range), false features (seeing ghost images), and changes in color; all of which can degrade the quality of the images captured and even interfere with the ability to detect objects in the scene. Testing for stray light in a camera is crucial for understanding the system’s limitations. 

Imatest provides both software and hardware for stray light testing, including:

  1. Imatest Software (Version 2022.2 or later) for stray light analysis
  2. Imatest Stray Light LED Source for camera illumination
  3. Imatest Motorized Gimbal for camera rotational positioning
  4. Imatest Benchtop Test Stand for convenient test set up
  5. Imatest Blackout Curtain Fixture for creating a dark environment
  6. ISO-18844 transmissive test chart for separate chart-based flare measurements

Learn more about the various components of our stray light testing solution below:

For more information on stray light and setting up your stray light test system, visit our stray light documentation.