Project Title:

High Resolution Imaging Spectrometer

94-1	08.06	9806		

High Resolution Imaging Spectrometer

Abstract:

Infrared imaging spectrometers have many existing and potential 
applications, however, widespread implementation of this technology 
will become practical only if a low-cost instrument could be 
developed with the combined features of large field of view, high 
spectral resolution, highspeed random access tunability, and wide 
spectral range. A significant breakthrough in such a system can be 
made by employing two innovative system components. Detector arrays 
based upon high-temperature superconductor on a silicon substrate 
(HTSOS) bolometers can provide fast response and high sensitivity 
over a wide spectral range (1-50 @m), and will permit monolithic 
integration of the detector, amplifier, and switching circuits on 
a single chip. Acousto-optic tunable filters (AOTFs) can provide 
high resolution, high-speed random access tunability in the 
infrared, high throughput, and a large field of view for imaging 
applications. This program will involve the development and testing 
of an improved infrared imaging spectrometer based upon these two 
technologies.

The development of a low-cost, high performance infrared imaging 
spectrometer will have commercial potential for a large variety of 
applications, including space-based astronomy, thermal imaging, 
global and industrial environmental and pollution monitoring, data 
acquisition for mapping of earth resources, weather and 
climatological data acquisition, military and law enforcement 
surveillance, industrial health and safety, and strategic and 
tactical missile warning and defense.

Key Words

Advanced Fuel Research, Inc.
87 Church Street
PO Box 380379
East Hartford, CT 06138-0379