Modular Compact Spectral Imager Based on MEMS Fabry-Perot Filtering Chip for Airborne Spectral Imaging

Airborne spectral imaging has diverse applications in scientific fields including remote sensing, environmental protection, geological prospecting, and military target detection. However, existing airborne spectral imagers have limitations, such as large volume, complex system configurations, and unsatisfactory performance. These limitations are primarily due to the dispersion elements used in these spectral imagers. To address such issues, we develop a modular compact spectral imager (MCSI) based on our newly developed electromagnetically actuated micro-electromechanical-systems-based Fabry-Perot filtering chip (MEMS-FPFC) for visible wavelength airborne spectral imaging. The MCSI utilizes a modular integration strategy, ensuring efficient system integration, high optical performance, and an ultracompact volume. With a total weight of 162.6 g and a compact volume of 60× 60×64 mm3, the MCSI is highly portable. Furthermore, we have developed a corporative control system to facilitate high-efficiency spectral imaging information acquisition. Laboratory testing has verified the capabilities of the calibrated MCSI to perform spectral imaging and accurately capture target spectral information. The MCSI has been successfully mounted on a unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to perform flight spectral imaging, demonstrating its effectiveness in capturing spectral-related data for ground scenarios. The emerging MCSI for airborne spectral imaging has numerous applications in civilian and military fields, such as smart agroforestry, mineral prospecting, and military target detection.