A sequential perspective on searching for static targets

We present a sequential approach to detect static targets with imperfect sensors, which range from tower-mounted cameras to satellites. The scenario is operationally relevant to many military, homeland security, search and rescue, environmental engineering, counter-narcotics, and law enforcement applications. The idea is to stop the search as soon as there is enough probabilistic evidence about the targets’ locations, given an operator-prescribed error tolerance, knowledge of the sensors’ parameters, and a sequence of detection signals from the sensors. By stopping the search as soon as possible, we promote efficiency by freeing up sensors and operators to perform other tasks. The model we develop has the added benefits of decreasing operator workload and providing negative information as a search progresses.

► We present a sequential approach to detect static targets with imperfect sensors.
► The scenario is operationally relevant to many military applications.
► The search stops as soon as there is enough probabilistic evidence about the targets’ locations.