Improved Blackbody Simulator

Blackbody simulators are commonly used for standards and test equipment in infrared measurement programs. However, advances in infrared technology have required improved accuracy for infrared standards used in high- vacuum, low-temperature environments. The study covered cavity shape, core material, cavity wall coating, temperature uniformity, emittance uniformity, temperature measurement and control, attenuation and calibration methods, optical analysis and design, NBS traceable calibration, and fabrication methods. The results of the study led to the design and fabrication of the Improved Blackbody Simulator. Over-all performance characteristics include temperature stability and control of about 50 mK, temperature uniformity of about 1 K, and spectral radiance accuracy of about 0.5 or better. The Improved Blackbody Simulator was delivered to AEDC for use in the 7V Chamber Infrared Simulator.