Hyperspectral Planetary Imaging Explorer : A Diffractive Multi-Object Imaging Spectrograph for Planetary Observations in Visible and IR Wavelengths (HyperPIX)

We propose developing the Hyperspectral Planetary Imaging Explorer (HyperPIX) instrument based on diffractive optics for passive remote sensing of planetary bodies. HyperPIX has a single optical path using an imaging Focal Plane Array (FPA) that captures a hyperspectral diffractogram image covering a broad spectral range from the investigation scene, while offering high spectral and spatial resolutions. A diffractive filter array (DFA) will be developed, which can be integrated into the collimated radiation of an optical path to form a Diffractive Imaging Spectrometer (DRISM) configuration. This allows the DFA to imprint the spectral information as spatial patterns on the imaging FPA. The acquired image by the FPA is computationally decoded to retrieve both the spectral and the spatial information within predetermined resolutions. This enhances the capability by simultaneously imaging the scene at multiple spectral bands using a single snapshot exposure, rather than using different optical filters and multiple images to cover the same spectral bands. The DFA is a thin transparent substrate that contains a microstructure pattern etched on the surface. This pattern will be designed through optical modeling to introduce spectrally dependent phase shifts for the transmitted radiation through diffraction. The designed DFA will be fabricated and characterized to allow the imaging FPA detector to record wavelength-dependent diffraction patterns superposed on the target image. Thus, near diffraction limited spatial information is overwritten by spectral information within the diffractogram. The diffractogram is decoded to yield the hyperspectral images with the ability to trade spatial and spectral resolutions during postprocessing. For validation and demonstration, HyperPIX prototype architecture will leverage the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE IV) Pathfinder instrument using solar occultation technique. A filter wheel is implemented for tuning the instrument to a specific spectral band for imaging by a FPA detector. Integrating the DFA into the filter wheel to form the DRISM enables two modes of operation: a High-Resolution mode for capturing high spatial resolution images within a single spectral band, and a Hyperspectral Imaging mode for capturing the diffractogram image using the developed DFA. Both modes will be modeled, and experimentally evaluated for performance comparison in laboratory and field environments. The advantages for DFA development into DRISM configuration include, (1) reducing the spectral imager acquired data size, (2) increasing the imaging acquisition speed by capturing the same scene with different spectral bands at the same time during a flyby event, (3) reducing instrument size and complexity without the need for moving parts, and (4) maximizing radiation throughput without the need for high loss optics. HyperPIX envisioned capabilities combine the functions of a mapping spectrometer, such as the Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer, with an imaging instrument, such as the Imaging Science Subsystem, both on Cassini spacecraft. To demonstrate the value of the proposed HyperPIX, this technology will be scaled to the notional instrument requirements for the Narrow Angle Camera and the visible and near-infrared mapping spectrometer included in the Uranus Orbiter and Probe Flagship mission. HyperPIX technology enables future exploration for other planetary objects using orbiter or flyby platforms, including (1) measurement of sunlight scattered by atmospheric clouds and aerosols, (2) measurement of sunlight scattered by solid bodies in the solar system, (3) measurement of upper atmospheric auroral emissions, and (4) investigating the origin and history of planetary rings.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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