Abstract: Compared with traditional ground asteroid observations, deep space exploration is an important way to explore and comprehensively understand the characteristics of asteroids. Imaging spectrometer integrates morphological measurement and spectral measurement, and has the ability to acquire image and spectral data simultaneously. By combining morphometry and spectrometry, it is possible to achieve efficient identification and quantitative analysis of the chemical components of the exploration target, and has the strong advantage in the field of asteroid exploration. 
This paper analyzes the principle of the staring imaging spectrometer and the technological progress in various countries. Based on the requirements of light, small payloads and the space characteristics of spectroscopic devices, the application of staring imaging spectrometer is discussed. Then, this paper introduces the conceptual design of an acousto-optic staring imaging spectrometer, combined with the technical characteristics of its area array stare frame imaging and fast electronic control spectrum selection. An experimental verification is carried out, which provides a reference for the feasibility of this type of instrument in asteroid exploration.