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Advanced Micro Dual Wavelength Spectrophotometer (MDWS) for measuring minute optical changes in the millisecond time range

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Abstract

The most sensitive measuring device for measuring extremely small optical changes at individual wavelengths is the Dual Wavelength Spectrophotometer. For current biophysical applications in harsh environments we developed the robust, miniaturized — and relatively low priced — Micro Dual Wavelength Spectrometer (MDWS) as based on a former design. This MDWS was used for measuring gravity induced reflection/absorption changes (GIACs) in gravity-responding sporangiophores (SPPHs) of Phycomyces stalks during a series of parabolas on the AIRBUS-300-ZERO-G (Novespace, Bordeaux, France), calling for precision experiments during free fall from the drop tower (ZARM, Bremen, Germany). Finally it is shown that the always present vibrational impact during parabolic flights can be reduced by 95% by proper damping procedures.

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  1. Fachbereich Biologie Philipps-Universität Lahnberge, D-35032, Marburg, Germany

    Werner Schmidt

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  1. Werner Schmidt
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Correspondence to Werner Schmidt.

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Schmidt, W. Advanced Micro Dual Wavelength Spectrophotometer (MDWS) for measuring minute optical changes in the millisecond time range. Microgravity Sci. Technol 19, 11–15 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02870983

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02870983

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