An imaging apparatus for obtaining spectral image data from an object that includes: a) a light source; b) an input optics section; c) a programmable spectral filter that conditions the multispectral image bearing light according to a predetermined spectral transmission function; d) a detector array in the path of the conditioned multispectral image bearing light and providing a corresponding output signal; and, e) a control logic processor in communication with the spatial light modulator for modulating addressable areas of the spatial light modulator to provide the spectral transmission function thereby.