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Welcome to the Infrared Spectroscopy Lab. This laboratory supports
studies of the vibrational, or thermal infrared, properties of rocks
(including meteorites) and minerals, using both emission and reflection
measurement techniques. Our primary users are interested in understanding
the variation in spectral characteristics of samples of differing mineralogies,
chemistries, structures, particle sizes, shock levels, etc. The knowledge that
is gained from these studies is applied to the analysis of infrared spectra of
unknown samples, as well as remote sensing data collected over Earth and Mars.
The lab is equipped with a Nicolet 470 FTIR spectrometer with a CsI
beamsplitter for coverage to 200 cm-1. The spectrometer is
configured for both hemispherical reflectance and emission measurements.
Hemispherical reflectance measurements (2.5 - 14 microns) are acquired
via a Labsphere integrating sphere and cooled MCT-A detector. The emission
configuration is modeled after the configuration at the
Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) laboratory at Arizona
State University. We welcome opportunities to collaborate on
projects with investigators from other institutions.
Watch this page for updates and information about the status of our lab.
February 2010
In an ongoing effort to augment the capabilities of our lab, we have just purchased
a new MCT-B detector for the hemispherical reflectance set up. We expect to have the
new detector installed and checked out by the end of March. This detector will enable
us to measure out to 25 microns, which is particularly important to measuring oxides
and oxide-bearing materials.
March 2008
The spectrometer was installed last fall, and is up and running. Currently, we
are in the planning stages of developing a sample chamber that will permit us to
make measurements in vacuum, to better simulate conditions on airless bodies.
31 July 2008
The spectroscopy lab buildout is complete, and the equipment has been delivered.
Installation and checkout will occur throughout the month of August.
17 March 2005
Download our
LPSC poster showing the instrument and initial data. (~2MB PDF file)
21 February 2005
Read about the laboratory setup in our 2005 Lunar and Planetary Science Conference abstract. In other news,
we have designed a sample stage for the emission side that will allow us to make
fine adjustments to sample position in the x and y directions in addition to selecting
the spot size via height adjustments. This stage will permit
analysis of much smaller samples than previously has been possible.
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