Sensitivity and detectability in Makyoh imaging

The sensitivity of Makyoh (magic-mirror) imaging is analysed semi-quantitatively using geometrical optical approach. A simple three-scale surface model is introduced for the framework of the analysis. Vision physiological effects on the perceived sensitivity and pattern detectability are discussed. The sensitivity is given as a function of the surface feature's lateral size, height and the instrumental parameters for a given contrast discriminating level. The surface roughness is taken into account through speckle effects. The effect of the finite lateral size of the light source is analysed as well.