Design and Characterization of a Space-Based Imaging Experiment Computer Unit

AbstractThe space-based chromotomographic experiment (CTEx), a hyperspectral imager, is currently in development at the Air Force Institute of Technology. This paper details an investigation of hermetic enclosures to house commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components. These enclosures will enable the use of electronics in space which may not be available in a space-qualified form for years and reduce cost/schedule constraints. This activity produced an experimentally validated thermal mathematical model supporting further trade-space refinement and operational planning aspects for this device. Results support the transition of this next-generation technology from the laboratory to a fully-realized, space-readied platform uniquely capable of generating hyperspectral data at high spectral and temporal resolutions.