Handheld Sensing Device for Pathogenic Detection

Existing technologies of biological sensing and radio frequency communications developed at Weld Star Technology will be applied to improve the safety of human habitation in space. The innovative sensors for pathogenic biological species possess high sensitivity, selectivity and short response time. This technology is based on the acoustic wave sensor approach and its feasibility has already been demonstrated. The ability to use this technology to monitor the environmental conditions of the cabin water and air with high precision would greatly enhance the safety of astronauts. Phase I of the proposed SBIR project will demonstrate the feasibility of integrating the available sensor with a portable battery powered data acquisition/analysis unit to form a handheld device to determine the concentration of a specific pathogen in recycled water/air. Emphasis will be to design the circuitry, software and power system that will enable a pass/fail decision. Phase II will be devoted to the development of a multi-sensor unit and a RF communication system that will permit remote communication between the handheld unit and a base station. This project will use the conditions aboard the ISS as a model, but is applicable to all space habitats where long term safety of the crew is important.