Researchers highlight acousto-optic tunable filter technology for balloon-borne platforms
Thursday, October 23, 2014 - 09:31
in Physics & Chemistry
Narrowband or hyperspectral imaging is a valuable technique used in planetary science for characterizing surfaces and surrounding environments. For example, it can be used to spatially map molecular species of interest on the surface of a solid or icy body, or to sound to different depths in a giant planet atmosphere. However, conducting narrowband or hyperspectral imaging of solar system targets from a balloon-borne platform presents several technical challenges, including mechanical failures and power requirements. These risks can be mitigated with the use of an electronically tunable filter such as an acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF).