Raytheon TI Systems, formerly Texas Instruments Defense Systems and Electronics, has led the way in the development of thermal imaging technology. The NightSight thermal imaging system allows users to penetrate the darkness by creating images based on heat rather than reflected visible light.
Police officers can detect criminal activity more than two thousand feet away.
These thermal imaging systems have been used to find hidden fugitives and locate survivors from collapsed buildings, etc. Raytheon TI's line of stationary-mounted thermal imaging cameras are only beginning to find many of their numerous possible uses. Fire department chiefs have mounted these cameras on their vehicles for a quick assessment of the scene within seconds of arriving. Cameras have been mounted on ladder extensions to provide a no-risk view into upper floors. Border patrol groups have used these cameras both in mobile and stationary settings.