Multiorder Etalon Sounder (MOES): a new technique for passive high resolution atmospheric temperature and moisture sounding from satellite

A technique based on the Fabry-Perot interferometer for measuring atmospheric temperature, moisture, and other trace species with high spectral resolution from satellite is described. The key technologies incorporated into the remote sensing technique and instrument design include high spectral resolution through the use of a Fabry-Perot interferometer (FPI), high sensitivity through multiplexing of orders, the use of an innovative FPI focal plane detection technique called the Circle to Line Interferometer Optical system, and the simultaneous sampling of all spectral bands and channels. Studies show that the Multiorder Etalon Sounder is feasible and can greatly improve the sounding capability of present infrared atmospheric sounders