spatial modulation transfer function (sMTF)

The spatial modulation transfer function (sMTF) is a measure of how well an imaging system can reproduce the finest details of a scene. It quantifies the system’s ability to preserve the contrast of small, repetitive patterns (like fine lines) at different spatial scales. A high sMTF value at a certain detail size means the system can reproduce those details clearly, while a lower value indicates a loss of sharpness or detail. In essence, sMTF provides a detailed profile of an imaging system’s resolution performance across various levels of detail.