The NEARInfrared Spectrograph

The NearInfrared Spectrograph (NIS)

The NearInfrared Spectrograph (NIS) that will be used on the NEAR mission spacecraft is adapted from a military remote sensing instrument. NIS has sixty-four spectral channels covering the wavelength range of 0.8 - 2.6 micrometers which are measured by germanium and indium-gallium-arsenide detectors. A scan mirror combined with the spacecraft's motion will be used to build up hyperspectral images.

Along with the Multispectral Imager, the NearInfrared Spectrograph will provide both imaging and determination of mineralogic composition by measuring the spectrum of reflected sunlight. NIS will measure silicate spectral features which are diagnostic of the composition of iron-containing minerals.

[Picture of the NIS]

Lesson Plans on Remote Sensing

Lesson Plans on the Electromagnetic Spectrum

NIS Overview on NEAR Web Server

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