Non-Scanning, No Moving Parts, Computed Tomographic Imaging Spectrometer

Conventional imaging spectrometers acquire data within a four dimensional continuum (x, y, lambda, t) in several ways, all of which involve some form of scanning--mirrors must be moved or different filters must be dialed in. We are proposing a highly innovative imaging spectrometer concept that is non-scanning and contains no moving parts. The elimination of scanning results in a more rugged design and enables the instantaneous collection of all data needed for the subsequent reconstruction of the three dimensional (x, y, lambda) data at each instant of time. A laboratory version of this system has been demonstrated and the preliminary results are very favorable. This Phase I SBIR proposed to initiate a development/refinement process which converts this proof of principle system into a fieldable instrument with a well documented design methodology.