Autonomous laser device for remote sensing of atmospheric greenhouse gases
A ground-based, autonomous differential absorption (IPDA) laser device for measuring multiple greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, N2O, H2O) in the atmosphere. Using tunable diode lasers in the near-infrared range, it provides continuous, remote monitoring of GHG concentrations along open paths of up to 1 km, ideal for high-emission areas and agricultural field surveillance.
Overview
This solution is an autonomous, ground-based laser device designed for remote sensing and quantitative measurement of atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHGs). It addresses the growing need for localized, high-resolution monitoring of GHG concentrations, particularly in areas with high-emission activities such as industrial sites, landfills, and agricultural fields. By deploying tunable diode lasers in the near-infrared spectral range, the device can simultaneously detect CO2, CH4, N2O, and H2O, providing reliable, continuous data that can support climate research, emissions verification, and compliance with international climate agreements.
Technical specifications
The device is based on the differential absorption light detection and ranging (DIAL) technique, a method that propagates a tunable-wavelength laser beam along an open atmospheric path to perform absorption measurements.
Key features:
- Integrated Path Differential Absorption (IPDA) approach measures mean GHG concentrations along the entire laser beam path
- Equipped with three low optical power tunable diode lasers operating in the near-infrared spectral range
- Capable of detecting multiple GHG species: CO2, CH4, N2O, and H2O
- Measurement range of 200 meters to nearly 1 kilometer per path
- Horizontally rotating design enables multi-directional scanning around the installation site
- Provides a concentration reading for each species approximately every 20 minutes
- Designed for continuous day and night operation under suitable weather conditions
- Fully autonomous and remotely operated, reducing the need for on-site personnel
Limitations: The device is not capable of operating under strong winds or heavy rain conditions.
Technology readiness level
The technology has reached an advanced stage of development. A prototype device has been installed and is currently being operated remotely in Crete, Greece to validate its performance and measurement capabilities. Preliminary results and detailed system design information have been published in a peer-reviewed journal, confirming technical feasibility and operational reliability. The next planned validation step involves installing a single unit in an agricultural field to demonstrate its ability to deliver continuous, multi-directional GHG concentration maps in a real-world environment. The system is ready for pilot deployments and field trials in collaboration with research institutions, agricultural operators, and climate monitoring organizations.
About ZORTENET PC
ZORTENET P.C. is a Greek start-up based in Athens that focuses on research and development in the fields of 5G networks, virtualization, cybersecurity, and blockchain technologies. The company specializes in creating advanced technical solutions, including network planning, edge computing architectures, and cybersecurity tools such as deep packet inspection and anomaly detection. ZORTENET also develops specialized software applications, including 5G slicing orchestrators supported by distributed ledger technology (DLT) for secure accounting. By leveraging virtualization platforms like OpenStack, Docker, and DevOps practices, the company drives innovation from theoretical research into practical, operational applications.
The company actively participates as a partner in large-scale European collaborative research initiatives, including Horizon Europe projects like HORSE, SEPTON, TRUSTEE, and EVOLVED-5G. Through these engagements, ZORTENET collaborates with international industry partners and academic institutions to address critical challenges in networked medical device security, privacy-preserving computing, and the evolution of 6G wireless ecosystems. These projects demonstrate the company's technical contribution to enhancing security and performance in complex digital infrastructures for enterprise and healthcare sectors.
delivered to your inbox.