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From scientific research to deployable operational solutions, Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR)
spectroradiometry is widely used for the development and enhancement of military and research
applications. These techniques include targets IR signature characterization, development of advanced
camouflage techniques, aircraft engine's plumes monitoring, meteorological sounding and atmospheric
composition analysis such as detection and identification of chemical threats. Imaging FT-IR spectrometers
have the capability of generating 3D images composed of multiple spectra associated with every pixel of
the mapped scene. That data allow for accurate spatial characterization of target's signature by resolving
spatially the spectral characteristics of the observed scenes.
MR-i is the most recent addition to the MR product line series and generates spectral data cubes in the
MWIR and LWIR. The instrument is designed to acquire the spectral signature of various scenes with high
temporal, spatial and spectral resolution. The four port architecture of the interferometer brings modularity
and upgradeability since the two output ports of the instrument can be populated with different
combinations of detectors (imaging or not). For instance to measure over a broad spectral range from 1.3 to
13 μm, one output port can be equipped with a LWIR camera while the other port is equipped with a
MWIR camera. Both ports can be equipped with cameras serving the same spectral range but set at
different sensitivity levels in order to increase the measurement dynamic range and avoid saturation of
bright parts of the scene while simultaneously obtaining good measurement of the faintest parts of the
scene. Various telescope options are available for the input port.
Overview of the instrument capabilities will be presented as well as test results and results from field trials
for a configuration with two MWIR cameras. That specific system is dedicated to the characterization of
airborne targets. The expanded dynamic range allowed by the two MWIR cameras enables to
simultaneously measure the spectral signature of the cold background and of the warmest elements of the
scene (flares, jet engines exhausts, etc.).
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