WASP: Wideband Advanced Spectrometer Platform

RadiaBeam is proposing to develop a wideband spectrometer for characterization and evaluation of optical elements in a rapid fashion. Accurate knowledge of the transmission spectrum of optics is critical for instrumentation development. The precise calibration and characterization of the embedded optical elements requires multiple sources and detectors to reliably cover the spectral band from visible to infrared. In this proposal, we will develop a wideband spectrometer that uses an array of linear variable filters to continuously cover the entire wavelength range from 200-14000 nanometers. Four linear filters are arranged to cover specific sub-bands, and precision linear stages automatically select the desired wavelength of interest. The end-device will be compact and allow for both calibration of optical elements using internal sources and detectors, as well as, calibration of external instruments with a dedicated extraction port. Successful demonstration will lead to a product that is useful for military and civilian applications.