Lightweight TOF Mass Spectrometer with Atmospheric Pressure Inlet

The objective of the proposed work is to design a lightweight mass spectrometer system based on a time of flight mass spectrometer with atmospheric pressure ion source. It is expected that this device will be able to measure ppb concentrations of atomic species in the 50-300 charge-to-atomic mass ratio range. Supporting electronics will be engineered from experience on constructing electronics packages for rocket launching into the upper atmosphere of Earth and Mars. The supporting vacuum system will be engineered as part of the entire package. Design limitations for the package are a maximum weight of 20lb, maximum power consumption of 250 wt.