Lightweight Raman spectroscope using time-correlated photon-counting detection

Significance Raman spectroscopy is an important tool in understanding chemical components of various materials. However, the excessive weight and energy consumption of a conventional CCD-based spectrometer forbids its applications in space-based instruments, including unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAVs) and Mars/Moon rovers. In this article, we present a lightweight and energy-efficient hyperspectral Raman measurement system. This technique allows UAVs and space vehicles to carry Raman spectrometers without consuming excessive energy. Raman spectroscopy is an important tool in understanding chemical components of various materials. However, the excessive weight and energy consumption of a conventional CCD-based Raman spectrometer forbids its applications under extreme conditions, including unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAVs) and Mars/Moon rovers. In this article, we present a highly sensitive, shot-noise–limited, and ruggedized Raman signal acquisition using a time-correlated photon-counting system. Compared with conventional Raman spectrometers, over 95% weight, 65% energy consumption, and 70% cost could be removed through this design. This technique allows space- and UAV-based Raman spectrometers to robustly perform hyperspectral Raman acquisitions without excessive energy consumption.

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