Snapshot Spectro-Polarimetric Computational Imager (SSPCI) to reduce SWaP & data volume

We propose to demonstrate feasibility of the Snapshot Spectro-Polarimetric Computational Imager (SSPCI) to acquire fast (snapshot) hyperspectral and polarization-resolved images of the earth with no increase in SWaP compared to a conventional panchromatic imager, and with considerably smaller data volume than conventional hyperspectral imagers. This approach leverages advancements in metamaterials, nanofabrication, and computation techniques to produce an instrument the achieves hyperspectral imaging and polarimetry with a significantly reduced data volume. The innovative collaboration between NASA LaRC and the University of Utah is expected to result in significant returns on investment for Langley’s polarimetry capabilities by advancing the hyperspectral imaging technology applicable to understanding Earth’s climate, natural resources, disaster response, archeology and geology, and urban planning. We anticipate that challenges in inverse design, nanofabrication and noise are risk factors, but we will address each one by utilizing advanced inverse-design algorithms, robust grayscale lithography for nanofabrication, and finally apply noise-tolerant machine learning as well as utilize state-of-the-art sensors to minimize detector noise, to maximize our chances of success. Polarimetry coupled with hyperspectral imaging is an increasingly growing measurement technique that offers air quality information at a low cost.

By leveraging the technologies and subject matter experts from NASA LaRC and the University of Utah, the innovative effort is expected to reach Technical Readiness Level 3 by the end of the first year, positioning the effort for the following year to achieve Technical Readiness Level 4. NASA LaRC is pursuing putting in place a grant for the two-year effort, and once the project reaches Technical Readiness Level 4, the team plans to pursue proposal opportunities such as the Instrument Incubator Program and FireSense Technology. The risk of not selecting proposal may result in missed opportunity to gain valuable insights and technological advancements that can aid in addressing environmental challenges and emergency climate response, as well as losing the chance to collaborate with the University of Utah and provide a STEM opportunity for future scientists at the university

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