Stray light analysis of multi-spectral optical filters

Multi-spectral optical filters are an essential component for spaceborne optical imaging. The performance of a multi-spectral camera mainly depends on the performance of its optical system. Performance criteria not only involve the resolution of the system but also the suppression of stray light in the system. Being one of the last components in the beam path before the light hits the detector array the stray light performance of the multi-spectral filter assembly plays an important role for the performance of the camera system. It is thus important to analyze a given filter design before manufacturing to assess its performance and identify possible sources of stray light. The stray light analysis of a filter assembly designed and manufactured by Jena-Optronik is presented in more detail. The filter assembly is part of the Sentinel-2 Multi-Spectral Instrument developed by EADS Astrium France for the Sentinel-2 satellite in the framework of ESA's GMES program for earth observation.