Portable Infrared Monitor for in-field identification of chemical unknowns

SSG Precision Optronics proposes the development of a compact handheld infrared (IR) hyperspectral instrument for detection of chemical and biological threat agents. The proposed system will combine a number of SSGPO's recent developments in compact grating imaging spectrometers and miniature front-end optics for the mid- and long-wave infrared, a new programmable sensor technology developed by Nova Sensors and our extensive heritage with hyperspectral operational hardware. This combination of technologies and experience, will provide the ability to rapidly detect and identify threat agent spectral signatures by programming the sensor to selectively detect in the hyperspectral bands that match those of the threat agent. This can be accomplished at readout rates significantly above typical camera rates (>>60 Hz) with no moving parts. The overall dimensions of a fieldable, battery powered instrument are anticipated to be on the order of 4"x 5" x 2". Phase 1 will develop system level design concepts for the compact, spectrally agile hyperspectral instrument with the base Phase 1 effort defining the system requirements and performing design trades. A Phase 1 option will experimentally confirm the viability of the system concept. Phase 2 will develop and demonstrate a prototype instrument for evaluation.