A Miniature, High-Fidelity Imaging Spectrometer

The emerging generation of small, lightweight, and low-cost Uninhabited Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) promise greater portability and maneuverability, smaller radar cross-sections, and less monetary risk than their larger counterparts. While the role of hyperspectral imagers aboard aircraft and larger UAVs has been well recognized for target acquisition and intelligence gathering, technological advances are needed before these instruments are small and light enough to fly aboard this new generation of UAVs. This project will construct and evaluate an innovative hyperspectral design that leverages the asymmetry of push-broom designs to create an instrument with data fidelity comparable to proven airborne systems, but with a smaller footprint and lighter weight. Detailed ray-tracing performed during Phase I verified this performance claim and also led to a refinement of the original designs. Phase II will focus on the engineering, construction, alignment, calibration, and characterization of a breadboard prototype, followed by the delivery of an improved, second generation prototype for demonstration. Additionally, plans will be made for the construction and trial of a flight-ready unit with a major supplier of small UAVs.