Compact, on-demand broad spectral range (visible to long wave infrared) calibrator (Conference Presentation)

First, the emission wavelengths from visible to short-wave infrared are generated by Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and phosphors which spectrally down convert the higher energy photons from the LED to a lower energy photon distribution. This process is analogous to the commercial lighting industry where blue LEDs are down converted into a distribution that resembles variations of white light. Second, several formats of carbon materials have been combined together into a multi-layer structure so that a highly uniform temperature interface feeds a high emissivity surface of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes. Finally, both of these technologies give rise to a thin profile, layered structure which can be easily mounted on a paddle for movement in and out of the optical path.