WG 1: Spectral object documentation

Leader: Dr. Marcello Picollo (IT), vice-leader: Sérgio Nascimento (PT)

1^st WG task st1.1 Identification, characterization and testing of spectral imaging techniques in the visible and near IR field
Spectral imaging techniques undergo a comparable change in technology as do spatial imaging techniques.
New developments in optical techniques lead to new means of splitting light resulting in new characteristics for instruments dedicated to monitor the optical spectrum for imaged surfaces. It is therefore necessary to explore the limits and advantages of the actual instruments in this waveband.

2^nd WG task st1.2 Identification, characterisation and testing of imaging techniques beyond the visible and short wave radiation
The physical and chemical composition of surfaces is an important factor determining the interaction with light and reflection behaviour. As not all of these factors have an impact in the visible spectrum, instruments exist which are able to measure beyond this radiation. It is necessary to exploit and qualify also these type of instruments because they are often essential for the analysis of the surface composition.

The activities of COSCH WG1 are mainly focussed on the identification, characterisation and testing of two dimensions (2-D) spectral imaging techniques in the visible and near infrared (IR) field (task st1.1) and on the identification, characterisation and testing of imaging techniques beyond the visible and short wave radiation (task st1.2) for the study and documentation of CH artefacts. These tasks brought together research groups with different backgrounds and diverse research applications and aims. However, most of the efforts have been dedicated to the application of spectral imaging techniques to the investigation of artworks, mainly 2-D objects such as paintings.