High Fidelity Multi-Mode Hyperspectral Multispectral Imager with Programmable Spectral Resolution

This SBIR Phase II proposal introduces a fast multi-mode hyperspectral-multispectral (MM-HS-MS) sensor with programmable spectral resolution. The sensor brings the following long-waiting benefits to the remote sensor community: (i) switchable between HS and MS operations, (ii) variable spectral resolution from 10nm to 560 nm; (iii) fast frame rate (54-1,750Hz), (iv) short full spectral range data acquisition time (10-1-10-2 sec), (v) increased sensitivity (particularly in measuring weak object or scene under lunar and man-made illumination), (vi) improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and (vii) more flexible balance between the spectral image scanning speed and the data storage/processing flow rate. Other features include: lightweight/compact size, versatile operation on orbit, low orbit, and even on ground, and low cost. The Phase II objective is design, assemble, and test the MM-HS-MS sensor prototype; evaluate performance pros and cons versus the state-of-the-arts; verify sensor performance against the NASA mission program; reach TRL-6, and deliver the sensor to NASA.