Applications of optical radiometry in Estonian enterprises and institutions (Pre-study)

Domain

Applied optical radiometry and photonics are key areas in development of reliable operating systems, compact solution and high-speed devices. Needs for new technologies are constantly increasing in wide range of activities, e.g. space technology, remote sensing, telecommunications, every-day life, where quality of optical measurements plays an important role.

In Estonia, the experience and competence in optical radiometry have been collected for several decades. The first serious activities are dating back to 1960-s when NIR radiometer MIKRON for space applications was designed and constructed. Range of projects extends to younger scientists who developed and implemented UV spectral measurement system in 2005 and continues with satellite image analyses for remote sensing of land, atmosphere and water.

Mainly, the research and development work has been carried out at Tartu Observatory. This has been tuned by demands in astronomy, remote sensing applications and atmosphere physics. Nowadays the gathered competence can contributed to even more wider applications.

Applications

Currently, we are working on mapping the needs for optical radiometry measurements and photonic applications in Estonia. Our goal is to elaborate a laboratory which is capable to underpin enterprises and research institutions delivering consultation, development and measurements services. This is, of course, more efficient in international collaboration. Therefore, we are seeking contacts and possible partners for future co-operation in:

• Designing and construction of sources and detectors in UV- and IR-region
• Optical measurements in non-destructive material research
• Calibration of radiometers and spectrometers
• Semiconductor detector research and modelling
• Radiation temperature measurements
• Development of technologies for remote sensing applications

The visible part of spectrum is a narrow stripe of radiation wavelength range - so are the research activities in every day life. We hope to bring for more attention together.

Project leader Anu Reinart, PhD Tartu Observatory

Tõravere 61602, Tartu County Phone: +372 7410 278 GSM: +372 51 93 89 89 Fax: +372 7410 205 E-mail: anu.reinart@aai.ee