Abstract

As the applications of Landsat data become more sophisticated, users have identified a need for improved spatial, spectral, and radiometric resolution in future instruments. Several sensor-design concepts have been developed to address these projected needs; however, the Landsat user community is diverse, and a sensor design optimized for research purposes may differ markedly from one intended for operational or commercial use. For example, an imaging spectrometer with a multiplicity of bands is an ideal tool for investigating phenomenology and elucidating spectral signatures; but, field-of-view limitation, data-rate constraints, and optomechanical complexity make this instrument less attractive as a primary sensor for an operational/commercial Landsat system. Conversely, instrument designs based on the multispectral linear array (MLA) concept can provide better spatial coverage with fewer (perhaps, 8-24) spectral bands tailored to meet the needs of operational/commercial data customers. The design approaches and missions are complementary, with planned spectrometer experiments providing guidance for optimal band selection for future operational/commercial MLA instruments.

© 1985 Optical Society of America