The objective of this project is to develop an imaging, ground-based, spectro-polarimeter utilizing state-of-the-art acousto-optical tunable filters (AOTFs). The approach is to use a novel, optical-imaging system designed to provide access to the orthogonally polarized, AOTF images and to use the undeviated central beam for guiding or other purposes. Access time will be less than 25 microseconds. The tuning range will cover 0.3 microns to 3 microns, utilizing a minimum of AOTFs to cover this extended range, and having a variable passband, nominally between 10 and 100 Angstroms at 1 microns. Other aspects of the approach are the use of an integral-instrument, image rotator to allow routine, linear polarization measurements using both AOTF-filtered images; the use of automated control with an interface to the data-acquisition computer; and the implementation of innovative transducer and/or AOTF designs to provide flexible choices of passband shape and/or position(s). Potential Commercial Application:
Potential Commercial Applications: Remote-sensing for survey of resources and numerous uses of AOTF in medical, biological, geological, oceanographic, and agricultural fields could result from this project.
