Ultraspectral Imager

This Phase I SBIR demonstrates the underlying technology required to construct an ultraspectral imager that has the ability to spectrally resolve molecular absorption lines while simultaneously creating a two dimensional spatial mapping. The proposed instrument will have a spectral resolution that is better than 2 cm-1 and two dimensional spatial resolution that exceeds 2 milliradian. Based on Fourier transform spectral imaging technology the sensor can perform ultraspectral mapping from a fast moving vehicle or of a rapid time varying scene. The SBIR includes three Tasks: the modeling of four innovative spectral stretching techniques and a prediction of the expected performance enhancements they will bring; laboratory demonstrations of each of the techniques; and a conceptual design for a set of ultraspectral imagers that would operate over the ultraviolet to near infrared (400 nm to 1050 nm), near to mid infrared (1.7 mm to 2.5 mm), and mid infrared (3 mm to 5 mm) bands. Upon completion of the Phase I effort, the proposed work will have conclusively shown that the technology required for an ultraspectral imager exists. Accurate the cost and time estimates to assemble a demonstration sensor system will be provided as part of the concept designs.