Space

Applications of laser-based sensors in space missions

Gas Detection in space

nanoplus lasers in in space missions

Space Tests

nanoplus lasers successfully validated for space missions

ALTER TECHNOLOGY TÜV NORD S.A.U. has successfully tested nanoplus lasers for space applications, ensuring their reliability in extreme environments. Their expertise in radiation, thermal, and vacuum testing makes them a trusted partner for space qualification. We highly recommend Alter Technology for further space-related testing of our lasers for complex space projects. Read more at https://www.altertechnology-group.com.

Air quality

TROPOMI (Tropospheric Monitoring Instrument)

nanoplus lasers are onboard the TROPOMI (Tropospheric Monitoring Instrument), the sole payload of the ESA Copernicus Sentinel-5 Precursor satellite. They contribute to global air quality monitoring. TROPOMI serves the scientific and operational communities working in climate and weather research. Every day, it collects data on key pollutants—O₃, NO₂, CO, HCHO, and SO₂—helping to improve air quality forecasts, environmental hazard and UV warnings, and operational weather predictions. Another major objective of the mission is to enhance the assessment of trace gas emissions, particularly tropospheric O₃ and CH₄, and their impact on climate change.

Read more about the Copernicus programme: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copernicus_Programme

CO₂ & H₂O

Isotope detection by NASA Mars Rover Curiosity: CO₂ and H₂O

NASA’s flagship Rover Curiosity detects CO₂ and H₂O isotopes based on their tunable laser spectrometer SAM. The analysis of soil samples is to determine whether Mars is or has been a suitable living environment. We are proud that the instrument uses a 2.78 µm nanoplus laser for this measurement.

Read more about Mars SAM: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sample_Analysis_at_Mars

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Explosion detection on space ships

Future space ships will be equipped with a kind of ejector seat. Extremely fast and selective explosion detection is required to be quick enough to save the lives of the astronauts.