Deep space instrument design for thermal infrared imaging with MERTIS

Abstract

MERTIS is a miniaturized thermal infrared imaging spectrometer onboard of ESA's cornerstone mission BepiColombo to Mercury. It shall provide measurements in the spectral range from 7-14 μm with a spatial resolution of maximal 300 m and 80 spectral channels in combination with radiometric measurements in the spectral range from 7-40 μm. The instrument concept therefore integrates two detector systems sharing a common optical path consisting of mirror entrance optics and reflective Offner spectrometer. Uncooled micro-bolometer and thermopile radiometer technology are implemented for lowest power consumption. Subsequent viewing of different targets including on-board calibration sources will provide the desired performance. Special attention is spent on the fully passive thermal design in the harsh environment around Mercury. The article will provide an overview of the 3 kg - instrument design and highlight the concept of the subsystems and technologies used. The status of the development process will be reported.