Infrared line scanners (IRLS) are a powerful means of gathering very large amounts of pictorial and spectral information from airborne and space platforms. Types of line scanners are reviewed and some of their more important applications are noted ranging from the ultra-violet to the 7.5 to 14 micrometer spectral bands. Prior to detail design a thorough system requirements analysis and tradeoff study is recommended to assure that the IRLS will meet the objectives of its military, commercial or scientific mission. This process is outlined for a low altitude penetration reconnaissance mission using the 7.5 to 14 micrometer IR band. Detail IRLS design is outlined and the most important system equations are discussed, including NER (noise equivalent radiance), NETD (noise equivalent temperature difference), MRTD (minimum resolvable temperature difference) and MTF (modulation transfer function). Tradeoffs involved in data processing and display to end users are noted. Future challenges include sensor fusion, size and cost reduction with improved spatial and thermal resolution. Both present and new IRLS designs will play important roles well into the next century.
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