That perception may alter now that FLIR Systems has launched its new Navigator thermal imager at a price of €3,950.

FLIR Systems claims to be the world’s largest thermal imaging company. Increasing worldwide demand for its products allows it to drive the unit cost lower and deliver thermal imaging to a wider customer base. An important contributor to FLIR’s volume production is the company’s supply of sensors to BMW for night vision on selected models.

Reduced unit cost is being achieved without compromise on quality. The Navigator provides crisp and clear 320 by 240 pixel thermal images in total darkness and in light fog and smoke. It features the same technology found in FLIR’s more sophisticated maritime systems but is packaged for those who wish to use the camera primarily as an aid to navigation.

The Navigator has numerous marine applications. It can see channel markers, shipping lane traffic, land outcrops, bridge pilings, exposed rocks, other vessels, and any hazardous object afloat. Other useful applications include short to medium range threat detection and MOB searches.

Unlike other night vision systems, Navigator requires no light at all to generate an image. Image quality allows the user to see more detail and detect small hazardous objects day or night even in conditions of poor visibility. The Navigator is equipped with a 19mm wide angle lens and no user adjustment is necessary. The lens provides a wide field of view for enhanced situational awareness and also eliminates the need for system stabilisation.

The ruggedised camera’s vital core is protected against humidity and water in an IPX6 housing. A built in heater is included to defrost the camera’s protective window and will defrost a 2mm covering of ice within 15 minutes when he ambient temperature is -30(DEGREES)C. The heater is automatically activated when the temperature falls below +4(DEGREES)C and de-activated at +6(DEGREES)C, ensuring a clean lens and perfect infrared images even in extremely cold environments.

The Navigator weighs only 3.2kg and can be installed in any position on board a boat. Its images can be displayed on virtually any existing multi-function display, such as a chart plotter, that accepts composite video.