Lenslet Array and Fabry-Perot Based Hyperspectral Imaging

We present a novel technique of imaging a 2D region such that the image formed has both spectral and spatial information in a single frame. This technique uses a combination of a microlenslet array and a Fabry-Perot etalon to generate multiple images of the region at different wavelength positions. This results in the formation of a hyperspectral image in a single snapshot. The instrument contains no moving parts and uses the property of blueshift of the transmitted wavelength as the angle of incidence increases on an etalon. The spectral band covered, field of view of the region, and the hyperspectral bands needed can be selected and altered by a simple change in the combination of focal length of imaging and collimating lenses used in the setup. Results obtained from solar observation of two regions in absorption and emission lines, respectively, are presented. A conceptual design of extending the capability of this instrument to perform hyperspectropolarimetry is also presented