In this paper we present a novel method for visual scanning and target tracking by means of independent pan-tilt cameras which mimic the chameleon visual system. We present a systematic and optimization-based approach to the problem, from the high-level to the low-level control. In particular, in the first part we develop a new algorithm for scanning the sphere using multiple cameras. The algorithm combines information about the environment and a model of target movement, to perform optimal

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... ning by means of stochastic dynamic programming. In the second part we develop a model-based control strategy for target tracking. A switching optimal control strategy based on smooth pursuit and saccades is designed by means of explicit Model Predictive Control (MPC) theory. We simulated and experimentally validated our theory on a robotic chameleon head composed of two independent Pan-Tilt cameras. The resulting scanning pattern and target tracking has a remarkable resemblance to the one seen in nature by chameleons.