Low Voltage, High Mass Range Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer for Mars Atmosphere and Other Harsh Environments

The invention is an ion trap mass spectrometer designed for use on the surface of Mars to detect minute qualities of organic and biological compounds that might indicate the presence of life or former life on that planet. Though compact, the instrument has a high mass range that will enable it to focus on the larger, less volatile molecules that would be less likely to have escaped the atmosphere. The technology has the potential for use in a number of other applications in environmental monitoring, homeland security and clinical diagnostics. Specifically, the ability to detect molecules in the biological mass range as well as chemicals will enable the detection and identification of biological agents and the protein biomarkers that may utilized in a point-of-care setting to diagnose a disease or condition or to monitor the response to drug therapies.

Inventor(s): Cotter, Robert

Type of Offer: Licensing



« More Medical Patents

---