Microbolometer imaging spectrometer

Newly developed, high-performance, long-wave-and mid-wave-IR Dyson spectrometers offer a compact, low-distortion, broadband, imaging spectrometer design. The design is further accentuated when coupled to microbolometer array technology. This novel coupling allows radiometric and spectral measurements of high-temperature targets. It also serves to be unique since it allows for the system to be aligned warm. This eliminates the need for cryogenic temperature cycling. Proof of concept results are shown for a spectrometer with a 7.5 to 12.0 mu m spectral range and approximately 20 nm per spectral band (similar to 200 bands). Results presented in this Letter show performance for remote hot targets (>200 degrees C) using an engineering grade spectrometer and IR commercial lens assembly. (C) 2012 Optical Society of America