Multi and hyperspectral imaging techniques have been effectively commercialized in the visible waveband to give pointbypoint spectral information about a scene. The current goal is to adapt these technologies in order to extend the spectral range into the near ultraviolet. Specifically this proposal addresses the development of a tunable filter to be used in these hyperspectral imaging systems. The development of a near ultraviolet tunable filter can be effectively addressed through the use of PancharatnamBerry Phase liquid crystal gratings. These gratings will have the unique capability to provide 1 nm resolution over the full 300400 nm spectral range, while also providing rapid tenability, a 1 aperture, a 5 degree FOV, high inband transmission and low crosstalk between spectral channels. The proposed technology could be utilized to address a broad range of commercial applications including machine vision, environmental monitoring, biomedical imaging, and explosives detection.
