A hyperspectral long wavelength infrared (LWIR) imaging sensor may have the ability to utilize polarization phenomena as well. Together, this could enable a new design to be used as a passive detection technique for locating concealed objects and disturbed earth. At shorter wavelengths, a tunable spectral imaging filter has been used, particularly in the Mars orbit satellite. Using such a filter for LWIR has been an materials research challenge. The team has made a significant advance that will permit this technology to be used to demonstrate the basic optical and spectral materials of the mercurous bromide and thallium arsenic selenide materials. The technology should enable the production of very compact and lightweight sensors, capable of being carried or used as an unattended ground sensor. The prototype would be tunable, so that the operator could select the preferred frequency and bandwidth specific to the use of the sensor, thereby enabling a ore generalized collection of hyperspectral data. Rapid data analysis wil provide feedback of rapid detection of ground disturbances, such as in mines, or noxious materials. The research projects will engage students in pushing this engineering and data analysis frontier.
