MASS SPECTROMETERS FOR SPACE APPLICATIONS
Novel designs of mass spectrometers based on time-of-flight reflectron systems coupled with laser desorption/ionization sources have been developed (Managadze TOF-R). The instruments were used in several space programs both in Russia and USA. Continuous developments result in a new class of miniature high sensitivity instruments that can be used both in space and in land applications. Analysis of microbial life on planets (such as Mars) as well as identification and monitoring of living and fossilized microbes is possible with high precision. Fenixtec is now capable of delivering components and complete mass spectrometry systems of special design needed by research and industry. Among systems offered are: LARMOR - for chemical analysis of organic compounds in solids; the instrument design is based on completely axis symmetrical mass analyzer with pulsed laser ion source; it can measure quantities of organic molecules with weight range between 1 and 10,000 Daltons. LASMA - Mass reflector with a laser ion source. Main applications are in determining elemental and isotopic compositions in solids such as multi-component alloys, ceramics, soils and powders without sample preparation. The instrument can also be used for analysis of liquids with high vapor density, e.g. technical, residual and raw oils. LASMA has a unique combination of analytical, maintenance and weight-size characteristics. The ability of simultaneous detection of all periodical system elements and their equiprobable yields registering each spectrum in less than 0.1 msec. Mass range - 1 to 250 amu, Mass Resolution - up to 600, Sensitivity - in femtogram range	Various potential applications of Laser Ablation Mass Spectrometers (LASMA-TOF) and Matrix Assisted Laser Desoprtion Ionization Mass Spectrometers (MALDI-TOF)available from Fenixtec: Space Research - origins of life missions, detection of elemental composition of space objects (meteorites), etc. Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences Monitoring of explosives and chemical agents Robotics Based Mass Spectrometry Detectors Fenixtec is developing several innovative concepts in space research. Information and proposals are available for interested parties on: a) Device for Detection of Microbial Life Forms on Mars and Other Planetary Bodies of the Solar System Using Lipid Biomarker Methodology and Miniature MALDI-TOF Mass-Reflectron with Simplified Sample Preparation; b) Concept, Method and Instrument Design of Remote Mass Spectrometric Studies of Planetary Surfaces We can design, fabricate and deliver advanced miniature mass spectrometers at very competitive prices and of highest performance and quality
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS MALDI-TOFR - On-Board Instrument for Space Missions This is a proposed innovative concept to detect and identify microbial forms on Mars and other planets by developing a simplified sample preparation method and a compact time-of-flight (TOF) mass-reflectron for registration of organics in the solid phase. A lipid biomarker methodology will be used to identify potential microorganisms. The determination of the presence or absence of microbial life can be supported with Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization ( MALDI)-TOF mass-spectrometry of lipids and saccharides extracted from Martian samples that could host microorganisms. Microorganisms can be in viable vegetative or dormant form, as well as non-viable (fossilized). Samples of Martian soil will be collected from the depth of at least one centimeter utilizing a low revolution bore. Finely ground samples will be used as the matrix for MALDI-TOF sample preparation. The main deliverables will be the design of a compact fully axially symmetrical reflectron operating as a MALDI-TOF-MS, the development of a simplified sample preparation methodology, and concepts for designing a sample transfer unit for delivery into the instrument. As a follow-up an onboard system prototype will be designed and constructed with corresponding software, and the commercialization path will be identified (potential applications for detection of minute traces of microorganisms in various environmental samples; the instrument can potentially be used as part of robots to detect traces of biological or chemical weapons).	LASMA TOFMS
Supplies The company can also supply components of mass spectrometry systems, such as: Ion Sources Detectors Vacuum Chambers Lasers and Optical Systems These can be standard systems or systems designed to customer's specifications. We have access to scientific centers in Russia where components can be designed and built at very attractive prices, in addition to innovative designs and technology solutions. Compact Long-Focus Laser Ion Sources for TOF MS Recently designed Long-Focus Laser Beam Ion Source with Optical System for TOF MS is currently available for order. The basic specifications are listed below: - Optical system focusing distance – 20 to 30 cm - IR Laser - λ ~ 1.06 µm, τ ~ 10 nsec, Å ~ 18-20 mJ - IR-Laser beam (Q pulsed) is focused into 30 to 80 µm diameter spot - Laser beam spot power density - up to ~10(+E11) W/cm2 - Objective Lens is connected to an optical microscope with magnification of 30 to 60 allowing observation of laser impact spot - Optical system provides laser spot movements within ± 10 mm vertically and ± 5 mm horizontally - With assistance of circular optical attenuator (included with this optical system) the laser beam power density can be varied between 0 and up to ~ 10(+E11) W/cm2 - System weight with laser power supply – under 2.5 kg - Laser Sources depending on specifications and components are priced between $10,500 and $19,900.