Innovative solution to improve the accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency of ground-based hyperspectral measurements with a spectroradiometer

Field-based hyperspectral standoff measurements with a spectroradiometer encounter temporal limitations due to satellite overpass and optimum solar illumination requirements. Efficient sampling protocols, accurate targeting of the measured area, geolocation, repeatability, and rapid data acquisition are critical to the quality of field measurements. In this study we evaluate Spectral Evolution’s SensaProbe accessory used in conjunction with a high-resolution NaturaSpec Plus UV-Vis-NIR spectroradiometer. This accessory integrates an inclinometer, a laser for accurate targeting and distance calculation of the measured area, as well as a video camera for live visualization of the field-of-view of the target. Metadata such as GPS coordinates, solar angle, distance to target, inclination of the optic to the ground and picture of the field of view are automatically captured alongside hyperspectral data over the range of 350 to 2500nm. These capabilities are particularly valuable for satellite and airborne sensor validation, where precise spatial alignment and consistent acquisition geometry are essential for robust ground-truth comparisons. Our findings show that the consolidation of these measurements within one accessory reduced operator errors, enhanced metadata collection, streamlined acquisition workflows, and reduced the time required for accurate field measurements. These improvements suggest that integrated standoff systems like the SensaProbe can meaningfully enhance the quality and efficiency of hyperspectral datasets across many research fields such as environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, and remote sensing research.