Project Title:

Multispectral, Remote Sensing Using SPRITE Technology

08.03-1522
NAS13-406
Multispectral, Remote Sensing Using SPRITE
	Technology
Photon Research Associates, Inc.
	1033 Massachusetts Avenue
	Cambridge, MA 02138
		James C. Fraser
(617-354-1522)

Abstract:

	For continuous spatial and spectral analysis of optical radiation, a new concept
for a spectrometer that performs in either a serial-scan (pushbroom) or a staring
mode to detect infrared radiation will be evaluated. It applies a new detector device
known as a SPRITE (signal processing in the element), which offers increased integration
time, increased resolution, and reduced electronic processing over current area-array
spectrometer concepts. Developed for thermal imaging at 8 to 12 microns, SPRITE currently
uses mercury-cadmium-telluride photoconductive material. Optical compounding of HgCdTe
and alternative materials for implementing SPRITE technology may allow coverage of
the spectral regime from 1.1 to 14 microns. Phase I will analyze the essential solid-state
physics of the SPRITE detector, explore alternative SPRITE materials and spectral
bands, develop design concepts for a staring and scanning spectrometer, and predict
major performance characteristics such as bandwidth signal to noise, resolution,
and readout rates.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications: This concept would apply to an airborne or satellite-borne
pushbroom optical sensor and in a variety of passive and active optical sensing applications
including in-situ process monitoring of industrial chemical vapor processes.