Current ground-based LWIR his remote sensing activities at Defense R&D Canada — Valcartier

Recently, DRDC Valcartier has been investigating novel ground-based longwave hyperspectral imaging (HSI) remote sensing techniques. Specific projects include the development of a new ground-based sensor called MoDDIFS (Multi-Option Differential Detection and Imaging Fourier Spectrometer), which is a leading edge infrared (IR) hyperspectral imaging (HSI) sensor optimized for the standoff detection of explosive vapours and precursors. The development of the MoDDIFS sensor is based on the integration of two innovative technologies: (1) the differential Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) radiometry technology found in the Compact Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (CATSI) previously developed by DRDC Valcartier, and (2) the HSI technology developed by Telops. The MoDDIFS sensor will offer the optical subtraction capability of the CATSI system but at high-spatial resolution using an MCT focal plane array of 84×84 pixels. The MoDDIFS sensor offers the potential of simultaneously measuring differential linear polarizations to further reduce the clutter in the measured radiance.