MicroSTAF is a compact Single Turnover Active Fluorometer that provides marine autonomous systems with a deployable phytoplankton primary productivity assessment capability. Designed for fully autonomous in-situ operation, the instrument supports dispersed deep-sea profiling and onboard analysis.
MicroSTAF can be pre-programmed for autonomous sample collection and the acquisition of FLCs (Fluorescence Light Curves) and PEPs (Photoactive Excitation Profiles). Seven excitation wavebands support PEP-based spectral correction, and the instrument offers the measurement accuracy and sensitivity required for use in extreme oligotrophic conditions.
Rated for depths of up to 2,000 meters, MicroSTAF reduces instrument size and power consumption by more than 70%, enabling integration with AUVs, gliders and other marine autonomous systems. Requiring less than 4 W of power, it can extend sampling coverage while minimizing the impact on the host platform’s available power and endurance.
Specifications:
| Dimensions | Ø 88 × 290 mm, excluding connector and sample chamber |
| Weight | 3.4 kg |
| Power | <4 W; 9–12 V input; 180–350 mA at 12 V typical |
| Limit of Detection | Variable fluorescence amplitude equivalent to 0.001 mg m⁻³ chlorophyll-a under 452 nm excitation |
| Excitation Wavebands | 7 wavebands centered at 416, 442, 468, 495, 520, 598 and 630 nm |
| Actinic Light Source | Collimated output from 10 to 2,000 μmol photons m⁻² s⁻¹ |
| Instrument Volume | 1.8 L |
| Depth Rating | 2,000 m |
| Autonomous Data Output | RS232 or RS422 at 115 kBd |
| SPAR Sensor Spectral Range | PAR: 400–700 nm; PEP: 380–660 nm; full range: 340–850 nm; 10 nm spectral correction resolution |
| SPAR Sensor Photon Irradiance Accuracy | Below 1 μmol photons m⁻¹ s⁻¹ |
| SPAR Sensor Dimensions | Ø 46 × 100 mm, excluding connectors |
| SPAR Sensor Weight | 0.4 kg |
| SPAR Sensor Power | 4–6 VDC input; 100 mA typical at 5 V |
| SPAR Sensor Depth Rating | 2,000 m |
| SPAR Sensor Data Output | RS232 at 115 kBd |
