Integration Concepts for Space IR Sensing Component Technologies

"Compact, space-based hyperspectral imaging systems promise a significant increase in capability for next generation surveillance applications. The data cube containing high-resolution spatial and spectral information enables applications in generalsurveillance, tracking and identifying objects of interest with increased confidence and detection of spectral signatures of chemical and other agents. Critical in moving this technology to operational systems for space-based instruments is a reduction inmass, volume and power requirements.SSG proposes the development of a space-based hyperspectral MWIR/LWIR optical instrument that integrates three advanced technologies: use of ultralight SiC materials for optics and metering structure, a compact grating imaging spectrometer which utilizesthe first and second diffraction orders to provide simultaneous dual-band operation and an advance FPA/microdewar/electronics sensor engine under development at Nova Research for AFRL/VSSS which provides readout in MWIR and LWIR in a single FPA. The SiCmaterials properties of high specific stiffness and high thermal stability allow aggressive lightweighting of both the reflective optics and the metering structure and an athermal instrument design which reduces the requirements for thermal managementwhile maintaining excellent optical performance. This results in reduced mass for the instrument and less thermal control systems and structures. The comp