MWIR Linear Variable Filter for Planetary Hyperspectral Imaging

Completed TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 5)

Description

The project goal is to demonstrate a MWIR 2.5-5.0 µm linear variable filter (LVF) integrated with a GSFC type-II Strained Layer Superlattice (SLS) detector array for hyperspectral imaging which will enable cost efficient remote sensing using planetary orbiters and stand-off sensing with landers and rovers. Packaged as a small Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) hyperspectral imaging camera, this project will enable Artemis Lunar Terrain Vehicle, PRISM, CLPS, and SIMPLEx mission instruments. The project leverages the successful GSFC Compact Thermal Imager, deployed on the International Space Station in 2018-2019 as a dual band mid-wave infrared to long-wave infrared camera, which observed Earth scenes generating more than a million images spanning ice fields to wildfires.

Benefits

Demonstrate hyperspectral imaging with type-II Strained Layer Superlattice detectors. Establish key capabilities in planetary remote and standoff sensing of atmospheres and surfaces. Verify performance in volatile, mineral, and temperature measurements.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Detectors and Focal Planes
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2024-05-01
End date	2025-09-30

Project contacts

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

Terry A Hurford — terry.a.hurford@nasa.gov
Tilak Hewagama — tilak.hewagama@nasa.gov
Carrie M Anderson — carrie.m.anderson@nasa.gov
Christopher D Palor — christopher.d.palor@nasa.gov
Conor A Nixon — conor.a.nixon@nasa.gov
Murzban D Jhabvala — murzy.d.jhabvala@nasa.gov
Shahid Aslam — shahid.aslam-1@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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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