"Where would I find an illustration of the shape of the Earth without water? I've tried for years to imagine what it would look like from space."
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Miniature Laser TOF-MS with Reversible Ion Polarity
PI: William Brinckerhoff
This project will develop a next-generation laser desorption time-of-flight mass spectrometer (LD-TOF-MS) that has significantly improved capabilities and robustness for in situ astrobiology missions. The instrument builds upon extensive prior research into approaches to studying the organic and elemental composition of solid-phase samples on potential planetary missions. A combined off-axis pulsed UV laser and optical microscope system enable interrogation of small spot sizes for focused sample analysis. A novel sample probe approach and isolated TOF ion optics permit the instrument to operate in positive or negative ion detection mode on demand, without requiring large detector voltage swings. The ability to examine both polarities is expected to dramatically improve the science return from key surface missions that prioritize the comprehensive analysis of nonvolatile complex organics in an unknown sample matrix.
February 9, 2012
