A contemporary perspective on underwater optical imaging

Underwater optical imaging is an important area for sensing in aquatic environments. In this 2^nd article of a two part proceedings series, a contemporary perspective on underwater imaging is presented. As a point of reference, the advent of digital cameras and processing is taken as a transition point that ushered in the modern era. This increase in capability facilitated both the use of more sophisticated technology for image formation and also for processing that led to the use of laser line scan systems, range gated images, and the mosaicking of large areas for survey of the sea floor. Digital technology in both recording and processing underwater images now predominates because of the continuing electronic revolution. The fundamental limitations of underwater imaging have been known for nearly half a decade now, however, increased performance in illumination, recording, and the use of more sophisticated processing methods continues to present new opportunities for increased performance at decreased costs.