Compact Airborne Hyperspectral micro-Raman Aerosol Detector

The DUV-HRAD-A (Deep-Ultraviolet Hyperspectral micro-Raman Aerosol Detector - Airborne) system is a cutting-edge technology designed for continuous monitoring, detection, and classification of unknown chemical particulates in aerosols, with a strong emphasis on size, weight, and power (SWaP) optimization for UAV deployment. Leveraging advanced hyperspectral micro-Raman spectroscopy with deep-ultraviolet (DUV) excitation, the system provides enhanced sensitivity and selectivity while minimizing fluorescence interference. The DUV-HRAD-A integrates Dual Sense designed filters and retarders with commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) components, including lasers, interferometers, cameras, and piezo translation stages, into a highly compact, modular design that is ideal for airborne deployment on UAVs as well as ground-based applications. Phase I of the project will focus on building the theoretical foundation for the system, developing preliminary algorithms for hyperspectral image processing, and conducting laboratory tests with explosive particulate samples. The goal is to achieve high spatial resolution (~0.5 ?m) and continuous monitoring capability, making the system well-suited for applications requiring rapid, UAV-based detection of harmful substances. The DUV-HRAD-A has significant potential for both civilian and military applications. In civilian settings, it can be deployed via UAVs for environmental monitoring, detecting harmful pollutants in real-time, or for industrial process control to ensure compliance by monitoring airborne contaminants. In agriculture, UAV deployment allows the system to monitor pesticide residues from above, while in the pharmaceutical industry, it can be used to verify air purity in production environments. For military and defense purposes, the DUV-HRAD-A provides UAV-based early warning of chemical and biological threats, enabling continuous surveillance in critical environments such as airfields or conflict zones. By combining optimized SWaP performance with UAV deployability, the DUV-HRAD-A offers a powerful, portable solution for aerosol detection across a wide range of applications.