Software Development for a Diode Laser Spectrometer

Amlam NiragireDr. Edmond Wilson

Dr. Chih-Hao Wu

IntroductionFor a long time, scientists have wondered about the possibility of life on Mars

A lot of research has been conducted yet there is no answer

Recently, A team of NASA scientists found evidence of past water movement by studying a Martian meteorite ( Yamato 000593)

At Harding, we have been developing a robotic vehicle for space missions specifically in the search for science for life in the solar system

Laser absorption spectrometry (LAS) techniques

The RobotMeasurement Factors:

- Laser to detector distance

- Laser source temperature

- Current through the laser

Laser Source

Detector

The Robot

Software Related HardwareComputer

NI cDAQ embedded controller

Laser temperature controller

Detector temperature controller

Laser

Detector

Control PanelGenerate control signals

Acquire and save data

Provide feedback

DataDATA

Frequency StudyLimited resolution as modulation frequency increases

Temperature Study

Distance studySensitivity increases with distance

Data analysisAveraging

Data analysisAveraging

Base line

Data analysisAveraging

Base line

Inverting

Data analysisThe area under the curve is proportional to the gas concentration

What’s next?Software created worked very well

Provide insight

Gained experience

Field tests to be carried out this Spring and Summer

Field tests will focus on measuring water vapor, methane, and CO2

AcknowledgementNASA EPSCoR

Arkansas Space Grant Consortium

Any Question

s ?

THANK YOU