NASA's Standoff Ultra-Compact Micro-Raman Sensor

Traditional micro-Raman systems, while capable of fine-scale mineralogy, are limited by their need for sample collection and operation in dark room conditions to avoid daylight interference, making it difficult to distinguish biofluorescence from mineral luminescence. NASA Langley Research Center has developed a technology that overcomes these limitations, enabling daytime Raman spectroscopy from a distance of several centimeters without sample collection. This advanced sensor offers high-resolution imaging at 10 micrometers and can identify minerals, organics, and biogenic materials even in the presence of fluorescence. Its versatile applications include precious metals and jewelry analysis, narcotics and explosive detection, pharmaceutical quality control, contaminant identification on silicon wafers, and geological research. Suitable for handheld use or mounting on small rovers, this sensor provides a superior, non-invasive solution for mineralogical analysis in various fields.

For more information on this technology, please visit:
https://technology.nasa.gov/patent/LA...

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration solicits interest from companies interested in obtaining license rights to commercialize, manufacture and market this technology. For more information, please visit: http://technology.nasa.gov

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