Description: We propose to leverage synergistic efforts to further the TRL and MRL of a new class of analytical instruments for both laboratory and field measurements. The development is based on a concept for trace-gas and isotope analysis that utilizes a priority hollow fiber as a low-volume, compact gas cell. An analyte is drawn into the fiber, which has a reflective inner coating that guides a tunable laser beam to a detector. There is near unity overlap between the laser beam and the gas sample, leading to a highly sensitive system with an ultra-compact size. In Phase II, a prototype water isotope analyzer was assembled and demonstrated for lunar applications. In this Phase II-E, we will leverage the prior and ongoing work on planetary sensors to help improve the design and performance of related sensors for terrestrial applications. The project will result in the production of prototypes for both immediate utilization by NASA, as well as for commercialization efforts.

Benefits: Isotope ratio analysis is a powerful means of elucidating processes in planetary systems providing information on the potential source of water in the solar system as well as evidence for life beyond Earth. The proposed instrument will be useful for NASA planetary applications including laboratory analysis of returned samples and field analysis of analog samples in remote regions. Furthermore, isotope analysis is also useful for NASA Earth science applications including attribution of greenhouse gases and studying carbon cycling processes.

Sensors resulting from this project will provide an attractive alternative to existing isotope analyzers. The ability to obtain high-quality isotope data with a small SWaP sensor with low sample requirements will be appealing for a range of environmental monitoring applications including but not limited to drone-borne sensing and unattended field monitoring.