Primarily a space-born detection system, infrared spectrometers are a variation of the Infrared Imaging Scanner. The only difference is that while Infrared Imaging is based on passive detection of infrared emissions, the spectrometer is used to view the interaction between infrared radiation and matter. Because of this, Infrared Spectrometers aid observers in dissecting a targets chemical composition. This form of detection is a Light Speed Detection System and is thus restricted to in-system ranges when used in a shipboard manner. Research usage doesn't have a limit in range, since Infrared Spectrometry is often used to discover facts about distant stars.
| Ship Type | Detection Range (Active Only) |
|---|---|
| Civilian Small Craft | 1 Light Second (299,792 Kilometers) |
| Strike Craft | 1.5 Light Seconds (449,688 Kilometers) |
| Small Transports | 2 Light Seconds (599,584 Kilometers) |
| Escorts | 4 Light Seconds (1,199,169 Kilometers) |
| Large Transports | 5 Light Seconds (1,498,962 Kilometers) |
| Cruisers | 8 Light Seconds (2,398,339 Kilometers) |
| Capital Ships | 10 Light Seconds (2,997,924 Kilometers) |
| Stations | 30 Light Seconds (8,993,773 Kilometers) |
| Research Usage | Unlimited |