Title: Chemical/Biological Agent Standoff Detection

Spectral Sciences, Inc. proposes an innovative standoff detection system for remote detection and mapping of chemicals agents and other hazardous materials. The Adaptive Multiplex Spectrometer (AMS) is a general-purpose passive infrared sensor whose characteristics can be set on-the-fly in software. As a spectrograph, it would provide performance similar to the SORAD. It also can perform 1-D spectral imaging and implement target-specific detection algorithms in hardware for rapid-response, selective detection of weak spectral signatures against complex backgrounds. Furthermore, the AMS design is inherently rugged, with no macroscopic moving parts. These characteristic make it applicable in a variety of fieldable sensors for man-portable, vehicle-mounted, and UAV-based operations. In Phase I we demonstrated the feasibility of the approach through laboratory experiments, simulations, and optical design. In Phase II we will develop a prototype long-wave infrared sensor for use in field tests and demonstrate its operation in a variety of modes: as a spectrometer, spectral imager, and high-speed target-specific imager. This prototype will serve as a test bed to develop sensors for specific military and commercial applications.