HYPERSPECTRAL AND MULTISPECTRAL IMAGING
UNLOCKING THE SPECTRUM: UNDERSTANDING HYPERSPECTRAL AND MULTISPECTRAL IMAGING
Hyperspectral and multispectral imaging are revolutionizing the way we see and understand the world. By capturing a wide range of wavelengths, these imaging techniques provide detailed information about the composition, health, and characteristics of various objects and environments. Whether you’re exploring the depths of space, monitoring crops, or conducting cutting-edge research, hyperspectral and multispectral imaging offer unparalleled insights.
THE ROLE OF OPTICAL FILTERS
Optical filters are essential components in both hyperspectral and multispectral imaging systems. These filters selectively transmit light of specific wavelengths, allowing for precise control over which parts of the spectrum are captured. By using different filters, imaging systems can isolate various spectral bands, enhancing the contrast and detail of the images. This capability is crucial for applications ranging from environmental monitoring to medical diagnostics.
Filters commonly used in hyperspectral systems include bandpass, butcher block, multiline, patterned, order sorting, and linear variable filters. Order sorting filters are often paired with diffraction gratings in multispectral pushbroom type systems to aid in the precise selection of spectral bands onto the sensor array. Linear Variable filters can be used in systems with and without gratings, and are often used in staring-type hyperspectral imager mounted directly in front of the sensor to discretely select the spectral bands of interest from an image.
DIFFRACTION GRATINGS: SPLITTING LIGHT WITH PRECISION
Diffraction gratings are used to disperse light into its component wavelengths. In hyperspectral imaging, they play a vital role by separating light into a continuous spectrum of wavelengths contained in the incident light. This separation enables the creation of highly detailed spectral profiles for each pixel in an image captured by a hyperspectral optical system. With diffraction gratings, scientists and engineers can analyze the spectral signatures of materials with incredible accuracy, leading to new discoveries and innovations. Both transmission and reflection gratings are used in hyperspectral and multispectral imagers.
OPTICAL COATINGS: ENHANCING PERFORMANCE
Optical coatings are applied to lenses, mirrors, and filters to improve their performance. These coatings can increase the transmission of light, reduce reflections, and protect optical surfaces from damage. In hyperspectral and multispectral imaging systems, high-quality optical coatings ensure that the captured images are clear and free from artifacts. They also enhance the durability and reliability of the imaging equipment, making it suitable for use in challenging environments.
MIRRORS AND LENSES: SHAPING AND DIRECTING LIGHT
Mirrors and lenses are fundamental to the functionality of hyperspectral and multispectral imaging systems. Lenses focus and magnify light, while mirrors direct and reflect it along the desired optical path. Precision-engineered mirrors and lenses ensure that light is accurately directed and focused, resulting in sharp and detailed images. These components are critical for capturing high-resolution data and achieving the level of detail required for advanced analysis.
Hyperspectral systems benefit from specialized mirror coatings which provide high reflection values over a broad range of wavelengths. These coatings can be designed to be manufactured from both dielectric and metal compositions depending on the wavelength range of interest, environmental, and durability requirements.
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FULL OPTICAL CAPABILITIES
Learn more about the full suite of capabilities which are trusted by leading Global OEM’s and their Start-up challengers to deliver the right photons, to the right place, at the right time.
More about Hyper- and Multispectral
Bandpass Filters
In Multispectral applications, 3 to 30 filters (or more) can be used to select the spectral bands of interest. These can be configured in multi-zone (butcher block, mosaic) or on a filter wheel.
Linear Variable Filters
Diffraction Gratings
Mirrors
KEY SUPPORTING CAPABILITIES
Design & Engineering
Our commitment to finding the right solutions for difficult problems means that we are capable of doing what other engineers cannot. Some say we bend physics and solve the unsolvable. Can we? Maybe. What we know we can do is this: We ask questions and we dig, because sometimes the solutions people believe they need only scratch the surface.
Optical Coatings
Omega coating heritage dates back to 1936, and spans a wide range of technologies: Sunglasses to space-borne sun-visors; halogen light bulbs to COVID-fighting UV-C lamps, supermarket scanners to modern printers, astronomical mirrors to prestigious art installations to entertainment optics: if an application requires a precision or decorative coatings we surely have a proven solution.
Grating Manufacturing
We have the diffractive optics trifecta of multiple Ruling Engines, Holographic Mastering, and Lithographic exposure to create diffractive elements. Our in-house design and manufacturing processes provide standard or custom gratings for a range of applications, in both Original and Replicated formats.
Shaping & Polishing
We are capable to perform every lens and mirror shaping and polishing step after material synthesis. A multitude of conventional spindles combined with CNC grinding and diamond turning can fabricate virtually any curved optic.