Abstract
A small, portable, infrared (wavelength of 7 - 14 μm) system has been designed and developed to study the thermal behavior of the lunar surface and for thermal remote sensing applications. The principal operation of the system depends on collecting large amounts of infrared light, using a modified Newtonian telescope. The light from the object is reflected by the primary mirror and the secondary mirror. This collected light is then focused into a thermal camera by using an intermediate germanium lens as a field lens to provide a real optical image on the camera sensor. Several observations have been obtained out using the developed system, and eliciting some interesting results. These include lunar observations during different phases and during partial lunar eclipse. The thermal behavior of the lunar surface was identified, proving the system’s functionality and performance. The developed system is, also, particularly suitable tool for outreach programs and students projects which can possibly offer useful learning and exploration opportunities for students in different applications. In this paper, a brief description about the developed system is provided. Some of the obtained results are illustrated. The future applications and improvements to the designed system are also summarized.
Highlights
The principal operation of the system depends on collecting large amounts of infrared light, using a modified Newtonian telescope
When radio telescopes and infrared (IR) detectors were developed in the mid-20th century, researchers were able to explore the lunar surface to a greater extent than was previously possible [15]-[23]
We have succeeded in designing and developing a cost-effective and portable prototype for a ground-based infrared (7 - 14 μm) system to study the thermal behavior of the lunar surface and use the flexibility this system which allows for the further applications of infrared remote sensing
Summary
Lunar explorations are essential for fundamental and applied science, such as to evaluate the Earth, solar system and universe and conduct investigations in fundamental physics, astrobiology, and human physiology and medicine [11] [12] [13]. Direct investigation by space probes during the last half-century or so through space-based instruments [7] [21] [24] has contributed to obtaining detailed information about the lunar surface. We have succeeded in designing and developing a cost-effective and portable prototype for a ground-based infrared (7 - 14 μm) system to study the thermal behavior of the lunar surface and use the flexibility this system which allows for the further applications of infrared remote sensing. The conclusion and the future plans are discussed in the last section
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
