Characterization of an advanced focal plane for multispectral linear array (MLA) application

It is pointed out that the MLA instrument represents the next generation in the Landsat series of earth resources satellites. The MLA sensor concept utilizes a pushbroom scan mode to eliminate electromechanical scan mirrors, and the lower reliabililty and higher power dissipation which accompany their employment. The pushbroom scanner makes use of a linear array which consists generally of thousands of detectors oriented perpendicular to the along-track direction of the satellite. Test techniques have been developed for the measurement of the module parameters which are critical to MLA focal plane performance. These measurements include the determination of infrared responsivity, linearity over the dynamic range, temporal noise, and fixed pattern effects on each detector element of each module tested. Tests related to spectral response, crosstalk, and spot scan profiles are also conducted. A description is provided of the test equipment involved.