Longwave infrared snapshot imaging spectropolarimeter

A very unique imaging spectopolarimeter for use in the long wave infrared, 8 to 12 microns, is currently being constructed. The imaging system uses a novel technique first developed at the University of Arizona, which incorporates channeled spectropolarimetry with a computed tomographic imaging spectrometer (CTIS). The system is especially noteworthy because it contains no moving parts and operates in a snapshot mode, allowing it to record spectral data as well as the polarization state of each wavelength band in the spectra from every spatial location in a 2D image in a single integration period. The paper presents results from the currently constructed longwave infrared snapshot imaging spectrometer, as well as a description of what will be added to the system to obtain polarization data, and an overview of the design and operational details of the snapshot imaging spectropolarimeter.