A Compact LIF Spectrometer for in-Field Operation in Polar Environments

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Spectroscopy
• Polar research

Background:

• In-situ analysis of biological soil crusts in polar regions is challenging.
• Existing spectroscopic instruments may not be suitable for harsh, remote environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and test a compact, portable laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectrometer for in-field operation in polar environments.
• To assess the instrument's capability for studying biological soil crusts.

Main Methods:

• A novel compact LIF spectrometer (SFIDA-405) utilizing 405 nm excitation was designed.
• The instrument features an optical-fiber coupled measurement head and operates on battery power (<1.6 kg).
• Field campaigns in the Arctic and Antarctic were conducted for instrument validation.

Main Results:

• The SFIDA-405 prototype demonstrated successful in-field operation in polar conditions.
• It achieved a limit of detection for chlorophyll better than 5 ng/cm².
• The first in-situ LIF spectra of Antarctic biological soil crusts were acquired.

Conclusions:

• The SFIDA-405 is a viable, portable tool for in-situ spectroscopic analysis in extreme polar environments.
• The instrument shows potential for diverse applications beyond biological soil crust studies.
• This work represents a significant advancement in polar field spectroscopy.