Abstract

A mid IR Michelson interferometer capable of obtaining 0.002-cm⁻¹ resolution solar spectra has been developed for balloon use. The interferometer is based on the Bomem self-aligning instrument, and is equipped with a solar tracking system, telemetry, and recording systems, as well as temperature control and gondola orientation. The interferometer has made two successful flights in the 7–14 μm (700–1300-cm⁻¹) interval up to 40 km. The basic systems are described and sample spectra are presented.

© 1990 Optical Society of America

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