Vollspektrumkamera

Vollspektrumkamera, often translated as a full-spectrum camera, denotes a camera system configured to capture a wide spectral range from ultraviolet through the visible spectrum to near-infrared. The core idea is to minimize or remove the optical filtering that standard cameras use to restrict sensitivity to visible light, thereby allowing imaging across wavelengths that standard photography typically excludes. The resulting images can reveal information that is invisible in ordinary light, depending on the materials and scene.

How it works. A Vollspektrumkamera typically involves removing or bypassing the infrared-cut filter built into many cameras and using sensor and optics that transmit UV, visible, and near-infrared light. Lenses and housings may be chosen or modified to transmit across the broader spectrum, using UV-transparent materials such as fused silica or quartz where needed. In practice, photographers may also employ external filters to isolate specific spectral bands or to protect the sensor from overexposure in certain ranges. The goal is to maximize sensitivity across the desired wavelength range while accepting that color rendering may be nonstandard.

Applications. Full-spectrum imaging is used in art conservation to reveal underdrawings and alterations, in forensics and documentation to expose faded or concealed features, and in archaeology and materials analysis. It is also employed in plant and environmental studies, astronomy, and certain surveillance or investigative contexts where information beyond the visible spectrum is valuable.

Limitations. Color fidelity is often poor or nonstandard because the sensor response across UV, visible, and IR differs from normal photography. Image exposure, white balance, and calibration can be challenging, and optical designs must accommodate a broad spectrum, limiting lens availability and increasing cost. Safety considerations include potential UV exposure hazards to eyes and skin during handling and imaging.