Stratospheric Water Vapor Microsensor

40374 November 18, 1996 Deacon Research This project will develop a novel optical microsensor for water vapor concentration measurements in the stratosphere, using an unmanned aerial vehicle, satisfying the requirements for low power consumption, small size, and robust construction. The instrument is based on an integrated-optics approach and utilizes near-infrared diode lasers. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the technical approach and measure the detection sensitivity. Phase II will build and optimize integrated optics structure, incorporate it into a prototype airborne water vapor sensor, and deliver the working prototype to the Department of Energy for testing. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The sensor should be orders of magnitude more sensitive than existing near-infrared diode laser gas sensors and will be commercially applicable in industrial process control, medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring.