System considerations for hyper/ultra spectroradiometric sensors

A system analysis of spectroradiometric sensors applied to the characterization of gaseous emanations from smoke stacks or fugitive leaks explores the consequences of certain phenomenological aspects and their impact on the performance of dispersive gratings and Fourier transform spectrometers. Specific design issues relating to the two technologies are explored in some detail. However, it was not the purpose to resolve phenomenological issues but to highlight their impact on signal to noise ratio performance. It is shown that an adequate basis for a definitive optimized design is not yet available. A program to remedy this deficiency is discussed.