Cryogenic infrared radiance instrumentation for shuttle (Cirris)
In recent years, the Air Force Geophysics Laboratory has flown several rocketborne experiments with cryogenic interferometers to measure natural and induced infrared atmospheric emissions. AFGL is currently developing two separate shuttle payloads based on advanced versions of these rocket sensors mated to cryogenic high off-axis rejection telescopes. CIRRIS will have a spectral resolution capability of better than 1 cm-1 over the 4 - 25 μm region, and will be dedicated to measurements of infrared emissions from the earthlimb at altitudes from 30 - 300 km. CIRRIS data is expected to provide an assessment of the effects of the atmosphere on current and planned AF space systems and a comprehensive data base for atmospheric modelling. Additional CIRRIS objectives are to measure and assess the effects of shuttle contamination on other planned shuttle experiments and to obtain data on a large number of atmospheric trace species. Specifics of the CIRRIS instrument, measurement plan and capabilities are presented. © 1981 SPIE.
