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Robust monolithic ultraviolet interferometer for the SHIMMER instrument on STPSat-1
John M Harlander1, Fred L Roesler, Christoph R Englert
1Department of Physics, Astronomy and Engineering Science, St. Cloud State University, 720 Fourth Avenue South, Mail Stop 315, St. Cloud, Minnesota 56301, USA. harlander@stcloudstate.edu
Applied Optics
|June 5, 2003
Summary
A new monolithic interferometer made of fused silica offers a robust design for space-based spectroscopy. This stable instrument is ideal for harsh environments, enabling precise atmospheric measurements from orbit.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Spectroscopy
- Aerospace Engineering
Background:
- Spatial heterodyne spectroscopy (SHS) requires stable optical components for high-resolution measurements.
- Existing instruments may face challenges in harsh space environments due to stability and tolerance limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design, fabricate, and test a monolithic interferometer for space-based atmospheric remote sensing.
- To develop a robust instrument for the Spatial Heterodyne Imager for Mesospheric Radicals (SHIMMER) instrument.
- To enable high-spectral-resolution limb imaging of OH solar resonance fluorescence.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a monolithic interferometer using optically contacted fused-silica elements.
- Assembly, adjustment, and permanent bonding of optical components in a monolithic structure.
- Testing of the interferometer's stability and performance for space applications.
Main Results:
- Successful design, fabrication, and testing of a stable monolithic interferometer.
- Demonstration of inherent robustness due to monolithic design and SHS relaxed tolerances.
- Suitability for harsh environments and space-based applications.
Conclusions:
- The monolithic fused-silica interferometer provides a highly stable and robust platform for spatial heterodyne spectroscopy.
- This design is particularly advantageous for space missions requiring high-spectral-resolution measurements in challenging environments.
- The instrument is well-suited for limb imaging of atmospheric constituents like OH radicals from low Earth orbit.