Snapshot hyperspectral imaging: the hyperpixel array camera

Abstract

Hyperspectral imaging has important benefits in remote sensing and material identification. This paper describes a class of hyperspectral imaging systems which utilize a novel optical processor that provides video-rate hyperspectral datacubes. These systems have no moving parts and do not operate by scanning in either the spatial or spectral dimension. They are capable of recording a full three-dimensional (two spatial, one spectral) hyperspectral datacube with each video frame, ideal for recording data on transient events, or from unstabilized platforms. We will present the results of laboratory and field-tests for several of these imagers operating in the visible, near-infrared, mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) and long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) regions.