AOTF-based Spectral Imaging for Enhanced Stand-off Chemical Detection

DRS Scientific proposes a new type of Acousto-Optic Tuned Filter (AOTF) polarimetric hyperspectral imager that is compact, rugged, and inexpensive, has no moving parts, is free of optical aberrations, and is fast and sensitive. It will cover 8-12 mm with 8 cm-1 spectral resolution or finer, and will have mFlick sensitivity with a cooled camera, and<50 mflick with an uncooled camera. The germanium AOTF will provides low cost and simplicity, a large optical aperture, nontoxic materials, and easy fabrication. The AOTF will fit directly in front of the camera, without the need for coupling optics. This will reduce optical losses and emission along with cost, and allow for a compact sensor that can be handheld. The remainder of the system is electronics and software.