Space Based Hyper-Spectral Imaging Sensor

ABSTRACT: Spectral Sciences Inc. (SSI) proposes to address the need for improved battlespace intelligence by developing the Battlespace Large Area Spectral-imaging Transient-event (BLAST) sensor, optimized for space-based target detection. BLAST is a highly efficient, fast framing, Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) system with high spatial and temporal resolution. The system will detect, locate and identify energetic events using their spectral fingerprints. BLAST will couple SSI"s innovative adaptive hardware sensor design with SSI"s proven algorithms for (1) HyperTemporal Imaging (HTI) target detection and (2) HSI target typing in order to locate and characterize threats on the battlefield in real time. BENEFIT: The adaptive imaging spectrometer developed in this project will address both military and commercial market needs for high-speed spectral imaging. The primary product is conceived as a long-range standoff sensor to provide advance warning based on spectral characteristics of the target. However, the prototype will also serve as the basis for a wide variety of adaptive spectral instruments operating in the visible, NIR, MWIR, and LWIR that would be used for surveillance, process control, and biomedical applications. A common imaging spectrometer core of the instrument can be used for a variety of sensor applications, subject to customization and the choice of foreoptics.