Miniature robust high-resolution spectrometers for future planetary missions

We describe the design, fabrication, and testing of compact spatial heterodyne spectrometers (SHS). The interferometer is part of the effort to develop miniature robust high- resolution spectrometers to observe low density, low temperature and angularly extended planetary targets such as cometary coma and lunar exosphere in near-ultraviolet OH fluorescence emission. The stability of the spectrometer coupled with the high optomechanical tolerances makes this new instrument very robust and suitable for applications in space missions. © 2003 Optical Society of America