Spectral Calibration Of Infrared Space Sensors

Meaningful prelaunch calibration of it space sensors requires low-background test facilities for the controlled generation and absolute calibration of radiant flux over wide dynamic ranges. The problems inherent in such measurements are multiplied by the extremely low radiant energy levels at which they have to be performed and by the high selectiveness of most detectors. A procedure is described for the in situ determination of the spectral content of the generated radiant incidance. An analysis of all perti-nent calibration errors is performed. The attainable accuracy is ultimately limited by the inherent uncertainty in our knowledge of the radiant exitance of blackbody-type radiation sources.