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Completed TRL 3 (started at 3, targeting 3)
We propose to simulate the response of a net-flux interferometer to quantify the sensitivity of the optics to alignment in order to optimize the design for a visible light net-flux measurement. The breakthrough over existing techniques is multifaceted, improving precision and accuracy with several design choices, minimizing internal instrument errors and environmental assumptions, which directly propagates to the accuracy of assessing climate models. After completing this project, INFLAME contributes a novel measurement technique with improved accuracy to the Atmosphere Observing System (AOS), closure studies can be performed with airborne aerosol measurements and compared with GEOS and GISS models, and NASA Langley will further grow in-house expertise in optical design. We anticipate that the throughput required to achieve the appropriate modulation efficiency may reduce signal below target, however the optics within the interferometer section can be redesigned using kinematic mechanical techniques and tighter tolerances in addition to larger geometry to mitigate some of the loss in efficiency. The measurement technique used by INFLAME has been successfully proven in the infrared band and requires some optics optimization in the shorter wavelengths due to the higher precision requirements.
By the end of the current IRAD period of performance, we expect a working simulation of the optical output response, with variable geometry input parameters to use as a design tool in optimizing the next iteration of optics. The simulated instrument response will be compared with laboratory measurements of the instrument to a calibration source of known output and used as a metric to gauge the accuracy of the simulation assumptions. A second year of IRAD is anticipated to design the new optics to specifications determined in the simulated response, in addition to fabrication, alignment, and lab testing. Finally, an AITT proposal will seek funding across two years to design the chassis and integration method to various NASA aircraft for use in field missions suited with complementary measurements. NASA has already supported the efforts of INFLAME greatly through a successful IIP program, and more recently with support from NASA Langley Science Directorate to operate the instruments to better determine what changes are needed to produce the desired science. Continuation of this effort would advance our understand of Earth’s radiative budget.
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