Statement of the Problem: Large-area, high-resolution hyperspectral imaging is needed to accurately understand the carbon-cycle between the atmosphere and terrestrial systems. To do this cost-effectively, small UAVs will be needed, for which there are currently no hyperspectral imagers that meet both the performance requirement of DOE and the size/weight requirements for deployment on small UAVs. How the Problem is Being Addressed: A novel imaging spectrometer design that greatly simplifies the fore-optics of push-broom imaging spectrometers will be designed. This approach will provide excellent imaging and large signal-to-noise ratios across the full 350-2500 nm spectral range specified by this topic. Commercial Applications: Commercial applications include pipeline monitoring, invasive weed mapping, and crop-health monitoring. Key Words: hyperspectral, imaging spectrometer Summary for Members of Congress: A compact, high-performance imager that captures far more information than conventional cameras will be developed for small UAVs. This instrument will be useful for understanding the carbon cycle, monitoring pollution events, and it will also have numerous agriculture applications.
