Differential optical absorption spectroscopy instrument for stratospheric balloonborne trace-gas studies

Area of Science:

• Atmospheric Chemistry
• Spectroscopy
• Aeronautical Engineering

Background:

• Accurate measurement of atmospheric trace gases is crucial for understanding atmospheric processes and air quality.
• Previous balloonborne instruments faced limitations in mass, power, and spectral stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a newly developed UV-visible instrument for differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) from balloon platforms.
• To detail the instrument's design, capabilities, and performance for atmospheric trace gas analysis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized direct solar light in near-UV and visible spectral ranges for simultaneous analysis.
• Employed a pressurized and thermostated container for the spectrometer and detectors to minimize spectral drift.
• Incorporated light traps and a dispersive prism preanalyzer to reduce stray light.

Main Results:

• The instrument successfully measures atmospheric column abundances and profiles of O(3), NO(2), NO(3), BrO, OClO, O(4), and H(2)O.
• Demonstrated superior properties including low mass (42 kg), low power consumption (30 W), and reduced spectral drift.
• Laboratory and stratospheric balloon flight tests confirmed instrumental performance.

Conclusions:

• The developed UV-visible instrument represents a significant advancement for in-situ atmospheric trace gas measurements from balloon platforms.
• Its enhanced stability, low power, and reduced mass make it suitable for long-duration stratospheric missions.
• Provides valuable data for atmospheric research and monitoring.