Performance evaluation for imaging laser radars with focal plane array

Recent advances in lasers and optical detectors have made feasible the development of laser radar systems capable of providing real time images, one need regarding the growing interest on automatic target recognition applications. These imaging applications require the use of a focal plane array rather than a scan mechanism. In this paper we describe, from a new quantum point of view, the different contributions of signal and noise involved in incoherent laser radars systems based on a focal plane array in reception. This model allows evaluating the performance of these systems. A comparison with a real incoherent ladar is also given.