Mid-Infrared Linear-Variable Filter Technology Development

Completed TRL 2 (started at 1, targeting 2)

Description

We will fabricate and measure the transmission spectra of two R = λ / ∆λ ≥ 5 filters: one for the 10 – 20 μm band and one for the 20 – 40 μm band. The filters will be made by depositing gold films with cross-shaped gaps onto silicon wafers. The gaps, which define the bandpasses, will vary smoothly in size across to wafer to form the 'linear-variable' nature of the filter. Such filters do not already exist, but our simulations and previous work developing mid-infrared bandpass filters of similar resolution show that they are viable. Multiple filters can be cascaded to achieve higher spectral resolution.

Benefits

Our objective is to fill a critical technology gap to enable mid-infrared suborbital and space observatories that require moderate spectral resolution linear-variable filters for hyperspectral imaging. Multilayer dielectric linear-variable filters do not exist for wavelengths beyond 5 microns. It should be possible to fabricate them for mid-infrared wavelengths, but it will require an extensive development effort that will cost $500k - $1M. We will fabricate linear-variable filters by depositing metal films on silicon substrates, which is much simpler and less expensive than dielectric filters.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Optical Components
Program	Center Innovation Fund: GSFC CIF (GSFC CIF)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Jason Glenn — jason.glenn@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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