Laser Components supplied photodiodes that are now on the surface of Mars on NASA’s rover Curiosity.
Arranged in a hexagon pattern on the top of Curiosity the UV sensing photodiodes, manufactured by IFW Optronics, will gather data about the Martian ultraviolet light content. NASA wants to know more about the surface conditions, including solar radiation.
Other applications for this UV technology include sterilisation equipment, food preparation, scientific instruments measuring UV content, treating Legionella and Legionnaire’s disease in water tanks in schools and hospitals, curing optical adhesives, and processing equipment reliant on UV light exposure.
