Compact MEMS-based Fabry-Perot interferometers for space applications

We present the design and first test results for a compact point spectrometer for space applications. The instrument operates in the thermal infrared wavelength range between 7.5 and 10.5 μm and uses thermopile detectors as a sensing element. Spectra are generated in the time domain by employing an electrically tunable MEMS-based Fabry-Perot filter. The overall mass of the instrument including electronics is around 300 g and the miniaturized design is suitable for use on small platforms like CubeSats or (micro)landers. The spectral resolution achieved by the instrument is around 30, sufficient to identify the broad spectral features typically present in rock forming minerals.