Optical problems and solutions in the use of optical fibres for multi-sample spectroscopy

Our technique for spectroscopy of many light sources should enhance a particular method of environmental monitoring. In that method, several sampling points can be observed 100 metres or more from central instrumentation via optical fibres. The technique is fundamentally different from the use of discrete analytical devices at the sampling points, operated via the fibres. In contrast, the optical fibres serve for light collection, and a single spectrometer is used centrally. Its entrance slit carries the output ends of the optical fibres, suitably spaced. In another sense, each fibre observes a sensor´s optical analogue output, where that requires spectroscopic analysis. The presentation includes details of fibre choices, microlenses, a connector, and discussion of the design of a spectrometer