At Circle Optics, innovation begins with a deceptively simple idea: what if panoramic imaging could be achieved without stitching? The concept challenges decades of conventional approaches to wide-field imaging, where overlapping images are digitally merged—introducing distortions, delays, and compromises in accuracy. Stitch-free imaging requires not only breakthrough optical design but also software that can match that precision in real time.
In this Stitchless: Circle Optics in Focus segment, we highlight the work of two engineers whose expertise makes this possible: Dr. Anjali Jogeshwar, Senior Computer Engineer, and Mitchell Baller, Imaging Software Engineer. Their insights reveal the intersection of mathematics, computer vision, and human-centered design that powers our Pegasus and Hydra imaging systems.
From Theory to Application: Dr. Anjali Jogeshwar
Dr. Anjali Jogeshwar’s path to Circle Optics reflects a rare blend of academic rigor and practical problem-solving. With advanced training in computer engineering, her work centers on the algorithms that transform raw optical data into actionable intelligence. “We aren’t just processing images,” she explains. “We’re ensuring that every pixel aligns with reality—no distortions, no parallax, no lag.”
Her daily focus involves refining calibration routines, optimizing data pipelines, and ensuring that the systems respond reliably across a variety of conditions. Whether the platform is mounted on a drone for counter-UAS missions, on a vehicle for perimeter security, or integrated into a simulation environment, Jogeshwar’s work guarantees that users see the world exactly as it is.
For her, the real challenge is scale. “A proof of concept can run beautifully in the lab,” she says. “But scaling that to real-world environments—where lighting, motion, and environmental factors constantly shift—requires adaptability at the algorithmic level.” This adaptability is central to Circle Optics’ commitment to situational intelligence.
The Next Generation of Imaging Software: Mitchell Baller
While Jogeshwar focuses on fidelity, Mitchell Baller, Senior Computer Vision Engineer, translates that fidelity into the language of usability.
As Imaging Software Engineer, he bridges the technical demands of computer vision algorithms with the practical implementation details. “Our secret sauce at Circle Optics enables us to capture a ton of pixels”, Baller notes, “Doing a 3D reconstruction, one of our biggest problems is managing all of that data.”
Baller emphasizes unique challenges of a 360-degree camera system “The operator is inherently in the shot. We capture a full spherical view [so] if someone is wheeling the camera system around, you’re in the shot”.
Shared Purpose: Eliminating Barriers
Both engineers agree that their work is about removing barriers between people and information. Traditional stitched imaging systems introduce distortions that can compromise decision-making, especially in mission-critical environments. By eliminating parallax, Circle Optics removes that uncertainty.
Jogeshwar puts it succinctly: “When an operator makes a choice based on what they see through our system, they can trust it’s accurate. That trust is everything.”
Baller echoes this point from the user-experience side, describing how Circle Optics low parallax camera systems have highly precise, fixed overlaps. This entirely removes ambiguity and visual artifacts seen in competing camera systems.
What stands out in their conversation is the collaborative spirit that defines Circle Optics. Neither hardware nor software alone could achieve stitch-free imaging. Instead, it requires optics, mechanics, and software working in concert.
Jogeshwar describes this as “a constant feedback loop.” Hardware teams push the limits of optical design; software teams translate those designs into digital reality. Failures are frequent—but each failure reveals the next insight.
Baller sees this as the essence of Circle Optics’ culture. Explaining how the sub-pixel accuracy computed on the software side is only enabled by the world class optical design and mechanical engineering by colleagues on the other end of the office.
Impact Beyond Defense
While defense and aerospace applications often drive early adoption, both engineers emphasize the broader potential. Training and simulation environments can become more immersive and lifelike. Robotics systems can navigate with greater confidence. Even fields like filmmaking and virtual reality could be transformed by real-time, parallax-free imaging.
Jogeshwar highlights one long-term vision: “Imagine a world where immersive imaging isn’t just for specialized sectors but becomes a part of everyday tools—education, healthcare, even social connection. The foundations we’re building here could enable that future.”
Despite the technical depth of their work, both Jogeshwar and Baller ground their motivation in human terms. They see technology not as an end but as a means to improve safety, clarity, and connection.
For Jogeshwar, it’s about intellectual integrity: “We owe it to the people using our systems to give them the truth in every pixel.” As Circle Optics advances its platforms, the contributions of engineers like Jogeshwar and Baller will continue to shape what is possible. Their work embodies the company’s ethos: that situational intelligence depends not just on what technology can capture, but on how faithfully it conveys reality.
Trust, clarity, and usability—these are not abstract ideals but daily disciplines in their engineering process.
And while the technology itself is extraordinary, what emerges most clearly in conversation with these two is a simple truth: stitch-free imaging is ultimately about empowering people.
The story of Circle Optics is often told through its patents, prototypes, and partnerships with NASA, AFWERX, and the U.S. Air Force. But behind those milestones are the individuals translating possibility into practice. Dr. Anjali Jogeshwar and Mitchell Baller represent the intellectual and human heartbeat of the company.
By aligning precision algorithms with user-centered design, they ensure that Circle Optics delivers more than technology—it delivers trust in vision. And in a world where clarity can mean the difference between safety and uncertainty, their work could not be more essential.
