A far-infrared laser magnetic resonance spectrometer for the investigation of radicals of atmospheric relevance

A far-infrared laser magnetic resonance spectrometer is described. A superconducting magnet is used for the tuning of the energy levels. Pressure broadening measurements of OH and NO have been performed. The measurements demonstrate that the laser magnetic resonance technique is well suited for this kind of measurements. Based on this results the design and expected performance of a compact laser magnetic resonance spectrometer is presented. The sensitivity as well as the mechanical ruggedness of this spectrometer is sufficient in order to be used aboard an aircraft for the in situ detection of OH and HO(2) in the lower stratosphere and upper troposphere. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved,