Portable Infrared Monitor for in-field identification of chemical unknowns Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Topic No.: N05-072 Topic Title: Portable Infrared Monitor for in-field identification of chemical unknowns Proposal No.: N051-072-1235 Firm: SSG, Inc. 65 Jonspin Road Wilmington, Massachusetts 01887 Contact: Jay Schwartz Phone: (978) 694-9991 Abstract: SSG Precision Optronics proposes the development of a compact handheld infrared (IR) hyperspectral instrument for detection of chemical and biological threat agents. The proposed system will combine a number of SSGPO's recent developments in compact grating imaging spectrometers and miniature front-end optics for the mid- and long-wave infrared, a new programmable sensor technology developed by Nova Sensors and our extensive heritage with hyperspectral operational hardware. This combination of technologies and experience, will provide the ability to rapidly detect and identify threat agent spectral signatures by programming the sensor to selectively detect in the hyperspectral bands that match those of the threat agent. This can be accomplished at readout rates significantly above typical camera rates (>>60 Hz) with no moving parts. The overall dimensions of a fieldable, battery powered instrument are anticipated to be on the order of 4"x 5" x 2". Phase 1 will develop system level design concepts for the compact, spectrally agile hyperspectral instrument with the base Phase 1 effort defining the system requirements and performing design trades. A Phase 1 option will experimentally confirm the viability of the system concept. Phase 2 will develop and demonstrate a prototype instrument for evaluation. Benefits: A successful Phase 2 demonstration will result in a compact, flexible instrument for detecting detailed spectral signatures for platforms ranging from space-based earth observing satellites and airborne/UAV craft to vehicle and man-portable applications. The ability to detect and classify highly detailed spectral signatures of dangerous materials from remote locations can be utilized for industrial monitoring of waste gases, remote sensing of crop health for agribusiness and science missions from earth observing platforms. Integration into UAV and other small airborne platforms will enable low risk evaluation of unknown vapors and aerosols for national defense. Return