SightSense uses an optics– based method to measure key greenhouse gases such as methane (CH₄), carbon dioxide (CO₂) and ammonia (NH₃). Each gas absorbs light in a unique way. By sending a fine laser beam through air and analyzing how much of the returned light is absorbed, the system can determine how much of each gas is present in real time.
Why it matters
Various sectors contribute to climate-impacting emissions, yet accurate and continuous measurements remain a challenge. SightSense helps bridge this gap by:
The first field tests at Agro Innovation Centre De Marke, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research, illustrate that the data from SightSense v1.0 shows a good agreement with the reference system. These results demonstrate the potential of photonics to make environmental monitoring more precise, affordable and scalable.
The next generation of SightSense will integrate photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to make the device smaller, more versatile, and cost-efficient.
Our long-term vision: a chip-based mid-infrared sensor with 1000× higher sensitivity, opening the door to outdoor environmental monitoring and applications in food and health domains.
SightSense is developed by OnePlanet Research Center, a collaboration between imec, Wageningen University & Research, Radboud University, and Radboudumc, with support from regional and national innovation partners including PhotonDelta, Province of Gelderland and Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN).
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