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Atmospheric emission measurements with a balloon-borne michelson interferometer
Applied Optics
|January 30, 2010
Summary
A balloon-borne Michelson interferometer measured atmospheric background radiation at 38 km altitude. This study presents initial infrared spectra crucial for astronomical observations above Earth's atmosphere.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy
- Atmospheric Science
- Infrared Spectroscopy
Background:
- Astronomical measurements in mid- and far-infrared wavelengths are hindered by atmospheric absorption.
- Aircraft and balloons are used to elevate telescopes above the absorbing lower atmosphere.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure atmospheric background radiation at high altitudes.
- To characterize the infrared spectrum relevant for stratospheric and space-based astronomy.
Main Methods:
- A Michelson interferometer was designed and constructed.
- The instrument was flown to an altitude of 38 km using a high-altitude balloon.
- Data reduction and calibration techniques were applied to flight data.
Main Results:
- Initial infrared spectra were obtained in the 100-1000 cm(-1) (10-100 micro) range.
- Measurements were achieved at a mean spectral resolution of 34 cm(-1).
- The instrument successfully measured atmospheric background radiation at high altitudes.
Conclusions:
- The developed instrument is capable of measuring atmospheric infrared radiation.
- The obtained spectra provide essential data for correcting astronomical observations.
- High-altitude balloon platforms are suitable for atmospheric spectroscopy relevant to astronomy.
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