Competition to find applications for new laser spectrometer

Scientists have launched a competition to find new ways to use a novel laser spectrometer but hurry up: you only have a few days to submit your ideas. The Laser Bloodhound is designed to measure single, low-mass molecules like CO₂ and H₂S using chirped laser dispersion spectroscopy with a detection sensitivity in the ppb-ppt range and is ideal for deployment into harsh environments. It was co-developed by the Science and Technology Facilities Council and Princeton.

You are all invited to think of ways in which the instrument could be used and submit them via the link above. From 43 submissions to date, five have currently been shortlisted:

• Improved Medical Diagnostic Testing
• Emission detection
• Optimal combustion engine design and operation by "Laser bloodhund" in situ monitoring
• Atmospheric monitoring of greenhouse gas isotopes for determining and attributing emission sources
• Monitoring Arctic Methane levels