Aquarius - A Compact and Lightweight Ice and Liquid Water Isotope Analyzer

We are developing Aquarius, a multipurpose ice and liquid water isotope analyzer. Aquarius combines a liquid-to-gas converter with a laser spectrometer to measure water isotopologue abundances with per mil accuracy. Its compact size will be ideal for field hydrology, while an optional interface with a thermal ice drill will enable in situ measurement of polar climate records. Upon completion, Aquarius will be used for extraterrestrial studies including identifying Mars" past climate cycles, tracing Martian water history, and measuring deuterium abundance in the primordial solar system as recorded in comet ice. Anticipated terrestrial applications include sampling aquifers to assess drinking water quality in developing countries.