Affiliation:
1. University of Colorado Boulder
2. NASA Ames Research Center
3. Harvard University
Abstract
Atomic emission spectra provide a means to identify and to gain insight
into the electronic structure of emitting or absorbing matter.
Detailed procedures are provided for the construction of low-pressure
electrodeless discharge lamps that yield targeted emission in the
vacuum ultraviolet for the spectroscopic study of water vapor and
halogen species aboard an array of airborne observation platforms in
the upper atmosphere, as well as in laboratory environments. While
specific to the production of Lyman-alpha, atomic chlorine, and atomic
bromine emissions in this study, the configuration of the lamps and
their interchangeability with respect to operation lend these
procedures to constructing sources engaging a wide selection of atomic
and molecular spectra with straightforward modifications. The features
and limitations of each type of lamp are discussed, as well as methods
to improve spectral purity and factors affecting operational
lifetime.
Funder
National Aeronautics and Space
Administration