Portable Tunable Laser Spectrometer (PTLS) for Human Exploration: Update on Lasers and Mesh Networking

We report on the development of a wireless network of sensors that measure spatial and temporal distributions of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and water vapor in human habitable vehicles for NASA exploration needs. Each sensor is a hand-held, portable tunable laser spectrometer (PTLS). Toward this goal, we report on realization of first-ever, high-reliability mid-infrared tunable diode lasers emitting at 2683 nm for measurement of carbon dioxide and water vapor. These lasers are a critical component of PTLS. We describe the development, verification, and validation of these lasers which demonstrate achievement of requisite reliability and traceability needed for critical applications. We also describe advancement of wireless network system software enabling individual PTLS sensors to be incorporated into a network distributed throughout a human habitation vehicle like ISS for monitoring trace gases oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor.