An infrared hyperspectral sensor for remote sensing of gases in the atmosphere

Remote sensing by infrared spectroscopy allows identification and quantification of atmospheric gases as well as airborne pollutants. Infrared hyperspectral sensors deliver high spectral and spatial resolution images of a scene. By analyzing the spectra, gas emissions, for example from industrial plants, chemical accidents, or ships can be identified and quantified from long distances. The image of the cloud can be used to pinpoint the source of the gas as well as to assess the dimension and the dispersion of the cloud. A hyperspectral sensor based on the method of Fourier-transform spectroscopy has been developed. A cube corner Michelson interferometer with large optical apertures has been designed specifically for the task. In addition, the system encompasses a cooled infrared focal plane array detector, a calibration source, and a video camera. The system is compact and field portable. Field measurements were conducted on ship exhausts. Gas clouds were successfully visualized and identified.