UV Cameras for Imaging Sulphur Dioxide

Using our carefully designed methodology we strip the bayer layer from mobile phone sized cameras designed for the Raspberry Pi micro-computing system. The bayer layer is used to filter colours in the visible wavelengths of light (red, green, and blue) for the creation of colour images, however, it also prevents much of the ultraviolet wavelengths of light from reaching the sensor. By removing the bayer layer we increase the sensitivity of these sensors to ultraviolet light. Further details on this process can be found here, and in our original published paper. We have focused our approach to the measurement of volcanic gases, taking advantage of absorption features in ultraviolet wavelengths of light between 300 and 330 nm for a common volcanic gas sulphur dioxide. We have designed a suite of ultraviolet cameras for this specific purpose building on a set scientific methodology. Our recent focus has been on the miniaturisation of our system and adapting it for permanent monitoring installations.

UV PiCam

Versatile - our original PiCam housed in a sturdy peli-case - in action at Sabancaya, Perù.

Mini UV PiCam

Compact - runs using mobile phone batteries - in action at Yasur, Vanuatu.

Permanent UV PiCam

Robust - our newest offering, a permanent camera system incorporating spectrometer - in action at Kilauea, USA.

Our Permanent Installations Worldwide

Volcano Tech in the wild