Spectroradiometry, the physical measurement of absolute optical radiation at each wavelength, is applicable to a variety of settings, including measuring the spectral energy output of a lamp, LED display, or other light source to determination of the flux of sunlight reaching a forest floor or other scene. Unlike other science research fields where it is possible to collect a sample and transport it to an instrument for measurement, characterizing spectral flux requires bringing the instrument to the measurement site for in-situ analysis. Specific applications include the calibration of solar simulator systems and other test sources for solar flux research, pre and post-launch radiometric calibrations of satellite imaging sensors, plant growth chamber calibration, as well as surface measurements of a wide range of other spectral radiance and irradiance values.

For all of these applications, researchers need to perform radiometric measurements with a reliable high level of accuracy, when and where the measurements are needed. In response to these requirements, ASD designed the rugged and reliable FieldSpec^® spectroradiometer specifically for gathering remotely sensed reference measurements in mobile field applications. ASD’s visible and near infrared (NIR) spectrometers, having cooled SWIR detectors and short acquisition times, offer multiple configuration options and the industry’s fastest sampling speeds. ASD’s spectroscopy systems employ a flexible fiber optic cable providing compatibility with several different accessories, thereby giving researchers many options for acquiring critical data. Promoting a level of instrument portability that only ASD can provide, the FieldSpec system is the tool you need to perform research in some of the most remote regions of the planet.

ASD spectroradiometers are calibrated using a NIST-traceable, 1000W quartz-halogen lamp and a highly regulated power supply, producing a known irradiance, on a standardized Spectralon^® diffuse reflectance panel. The data are downloaded into a calibration file that is accessible when the instrument is placed into the radiance mode and a spectrum is measured.