Target Conspicuity and Visual Search

A general measure of target conspicuity is proposed for predicting the level of search performance as a function of spatial and temporal variables. The probability of locating a target is shown to depend on two factors: target conspicuity, the rate at which the observer can scan the field, and information input rate, the rate at which the field is presented to the observer. Predictions of the effects of such factors as size, scale, rate of movement, and time available, are made for reconnaissance displays. Some experimental support is presented.