Compact, Ultrasensitive Laser Spectrometer For the 3.7 to 11 um Spectral Region

A novel concept is proposed for a laser spectrometer for measuring trace amounts of chemical species. The spectrometer will be based on a unique laser source that is continuously tunable in the infrared from 3.7 to 11 um and which possesses spectra output linewidth on the order of 0.01c,1. The extremely high spectral brightness of the laser source will allow high sensitivity and accuracy. The vibrational-rotational bands of most of the trace species present in the atmosphere will be accessible. Temporal resolution in the single pulse mode will bebetter than 0.1 second. The compactness of the spectrometer will allow field use including aircraft.