Wavelength-selective thermal detection apparatus and methods

A wavelength selective bolometer includes a substrate configured to serve as a foundation for the apparatus and a thermal isolation gap established between the substrate and subsequent solid material layers. A conducting ground plane layer is disposed above the thermal isolation gap, and a first dielectric layer is mated to a top surface of the conducting ground plane. A temperature sensing material layer is mated to a top surface of the first dielectric layer, and a plurality of interconnects is placed in electrical communication with the temperature sensing material layer. A second dielectric layer is mated to a top surface of the temperature sensing material, and at least one conductive element is mated to a top surface of the second dielectric layer. The dimensions of the conductive element and other variables are chosen to achieve resonant absorption of selected wavelengths of radiation incident thereupon.