Spectroscopy Facility

Hi-Res Spectrometer

View of the Bruker IFS125HR Fourier Transform Spectrometer in one of the Hi-Res Spectroscopy Facility laboratory.

Studying the spectrally-resolved radiative properties of matter (extinction, emission, and reflection) at high spectral resolution across a wide span of the electromagnetic spectrum requires a significant instrumentation suite together with the associated skills organized into a dedicated facility. In the UK, this is currently offered by the High Resolution Spectroscopy Facility operated within RAL Space.

The core of the facility is a set of world-class Fourier Transform Spectrometers to which a wide variety of cells / holders can be coupled to probe and study samples such as molecular and atomic gases, plasmas, aerosols, liquid, solids, biological materials, interfaces, thin films and surfaces. In addition, the influence of thermo-physical parameters on sample spectral characteristics can be investigated using specialist cells and associated calibrated probes.

The facility welcomes challenging research projects across the Research Councils remits (NERC – MRC – BBSRC – STFC – EPSRC) and industrial projects in partnership with private sector (Innovate UK or commercial), either nationally or internationally. Our scientists can also assist with the spectroscopic data interpretation and associated software.

Key Facility Equipment

Applications & remits

Examples of projects

Contact Dr Damien Weidmann to discuss your research needs and how the facility can help you.