Description

The University of Leicester is leading a project to design a device that is capable of remotely searching for signs of life on Mars. The hardware has the capability of collecting, processing, and analysing samples remotely and of transmitting the resulting data for further evaluation. We are exploring opportunities for earth bound applications of such a device which we believe could be adapted as a sample processing system to provide “instant” results “in the field” with suitable detector and readout systems and eliminate the need for samples to be sent away for laboratory analysis. The device would be portable and easily modified to allow for the processes to be changed to meet specific analytical needs. The device is at an early stage of development and we believe it could have wide applications in, for example, the medical, veterinary, forensic, bio-defence, resource exploration, and environmental monitoring markets - where small samples are best analysed close to their source and in near real time. We are seeking commercial partners who are able to add value to the further design, development, validation, and commercial exploitation of this concept. For more details on this technology please contact Mr Tim Maskell, Knowledge Transfer Manager, Space Research Centre, University of Leicester twom1@le.ac.uk or +44 (0) 116 2522464