The worldwide market for infrared lasers and infrared laser-based gas sensors with the capabilities of the proposed system is significant. Potential applications include trace gas monitoring, pollution monitoring, industrial process control, and medical diagnostics.
NASA applications for the laser described in this proposal include the interrogation of extraterrestrial atmospheres for trace species, as well as in the study of Earth's atmosphere. The laser will have applications in atmospheric chemistry and satellite validation. Additionally, the laser source could also be applied to air quality monitoring in manned spacecraft such as the International Space Station. The ability to measure toxic gases such as formaldehyde and other hydrocarbons aboard manned spacecraft is of utmost importance to JSC space toxicology group.
More »