LiCHI - Liquid Crystal Hyperspectral Imager for simultaneous multispectral imaging in aeronomy

Area of Science:

• Atmospheric Physics
• Aeronomy
• Optical Instrumentation

Background:

• Natural airglow and auroral emissions are key phenomena in Earth's upper atmosphere.
• Understanding these emissions requires advanced remote sensing techniques.
• Existing instrumentation may have limitations in spectral and temporal resolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To build and test a novel four-channel hyperspectral imager.
• To evaluate the instrument's suitability for aeronomical studies of atmospheric emissions.
• To assess the capabilities and challenges of using Liquid Crystal Fabry-Perot (LCFP) etalons for this purpose.

Main Methods:

• Development of a four-channel hyperspectral imager utilizing LCFP etalons.
• Simultaneous measurements across four visible spectrum wavelength ranges.
• Field deployment and testing at Poker Flat Research Range, Alaska (February-April 2014).

Main Results:

• The hyperspectral imager successfully acquired data on airglow and auroral emissions.
• Demonstrated simultaneous measurement capabilities in multiple wavelength bands.
• Identified specific operational capabilities and challenges for aeronomical applications.

Conclusions:

• The LCFP-based hyperspectral imager is a viable sensor for aeronomical studies.
• The instrument shows promise for advancing the understanding of upper atmospheric phenomena.
• Further development may be needed to overcome identified challenges for optimal performance.