Prof. E. Mahieu and Dr. P.-H. Lefebvre in the Sphinx observatory with the Norhof LN2 auto-fill system connected to the Bruker IFS125 HR FTIR Spectrometer (picture by hfsjg.ch)
We are thrilled to announce that the Norhof LN2 Auto-fill system has been successfully installed on the Bruker IFS 125HR FTIR spectrometer at the Sphinx High Altitude Research Station on Jungfraujoch, Switzerland. This important upgrade was completed by the dedicated team at GIRPAS (University of Liège), ensuring the continuation of crucial research on climate change and the measurement of greenhouse gases.
The Norhof #608 LN2 Automatic FTIR Detector Filling System is designed to provide precise and automated liquid nitrogen delivery for FTIR detectors. By maintaining a consistent LN2 supply, it ensures optimal detector performance and reduces manual handling. Key benefits include enhanced safety by minimizing direct LN2 exposure, improved measurement accuracy through stable cooling, and increased efficiency with its user-friendly, automated operation.
Since 1950, the University of Liège has been at the forefront of working with high-resolution infrared spectrometers. Their expertise has played a vital role in understanding the Earth’s atmosphere by using selective absorption of sunlight by gases. This technique allows scientists to derive valuable data on atmospheric composition, especially above Jungfraujoch—an ideal location due to its high altitude, far from most sources of pollution.
Through this installation, researchers can continue to track over 30 atmospheric gases tied to key issues such as ozone depletion and the greenhouse effect. Monitoring gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) at such a pristine location is invaluable in the fight against climate change. 🌱
The Sphinx research station, located at 3.571 m (11,716 ft) above mean sea level (picture by hfsjg.ch)
GIRPAS, part of the University of Liège, utilizes infrared remote-sensing techniques alongside atmospheric modelling to monitor the composition and circulation of the Earth’s atmosphere. Their work is helping to document the ongoing impact of climate change, contributing critical insights into our planet’s future.
Located at an impressive 3,571 meters (11,716 feet) above sea level, the Sphinx Observatory is one of the highest research stations in the world—and the highest in Europe. This makes it a unique and highly valuable location for atmospheric measurements.
We’re excited to see the continued progress from this collaboration and the potential impact on our understanding of global climate dynamics.
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