Understanding and predicting the behavior of the earth's atmosphere requires a very large number of instruments to measure a very wide range of radiation levels at an extremely broad range of wavelengths. Presently, what is available is too specialized, and thus too expensive, to allow for use in adequate numbers. This project will create and demonstrate the utility of a uniquely designed, reliable, and easy-to-use radiometer that will cover the enormous ranges of power and wavelength needed. The core of this instrument will be an electrically calibrated detector element that can be mass produced for use in a wide variety of inexpensive optical power measurement systems. In Phase I, a prototype of the core detector element will be created and its operational characteristics will be shown to be compatible with the radiometer system goals of power ranges, wavelength coverage, and accuracy needed. The design will make evident the mass production capabilities that will ensure the low cost per system.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: These detectors and radiometer systems should be the radiation measurement standard for laboratories all over the world and should be applicable to a wide range of uses beyond atmospheric measurements, including visible and infrared optical powers in fiber optic communications, temperatures in material processing, and radiation loss in buildings.
