Multi-spectrally-consistent camouflage metasurface simultaneously for visible, infrared and microwave regimes

The ability to generate deceptive targets for self-concealment, much like a chameleon, has long captivated human imagination. However, traditional false-target techniques are typically confined to a single spectrum, limiting their usefulness across heterogeneous environments. In order to create deceptive targets that are simultaneously effective in visible, infrared and microwave spectra, we propose a multi-spectral compatible camouflage metasurface that can be coated on the target object, akin to an advanced digital camouflage net. In the visible spectrum, a synthetic deceptive-target image is projected by overlaying a high-resolution color print on an optically transparent substrate. In the infrared spectrum, a deceptive thermal signature is tailored by patterning low- and high-emissivity pixels. In the microwave spectrum, a deceptive radar signature is crafted by complex-amplitude holography based on the Huygens–Fresnel principle. As verification, the multispectral compatible camouflage metasurface is fabricated and measured, and all the results convincingly demonstrate our design. Encouragingly, this multispectral deceptive-target metasurface offers a route toward integrated camouflage systems with potential applications in building technologies, environmental sensing, and communications.