Thermal Imaging: Seeing the Invisible World of Heat
Thermal imaging (also known as infrared thermography) is a non-contact, diagnostic technology that creates a visual representation of the heat (infrared radiation) emitted by objects, environments, or living beings. This invisible electromagnetic radiation, which all objects above absolute zero (0 Kelvin) emit, is converted into a visible image called a thermogram.
Thermal imaging cameras, often called thermal imagers or IR cameras, essentially allow users to "see" temperature variations, making hot objects stand out against cooler backgrounds, regardless of the visible light conditions.
How a Thermal Imaging Camera Works
Thermal cameras operate entirely on the principle of detecting infrared (IR) energy rather than visible light. The process involves several steps: