Ultimately, the methods we use to measure spectral properties of natural surfaces or gases in the atmosphere are only as good as our documentation of the expected spectra in controlled settings. For this reason, a large part of my research aims to refine and augment the collection of available reference spectra for target materials such as volcanic gases and ash, using high-precision laboratory spectroscopy and carefully controlled environmental chambers. My aim is to perform detailed measurements at multiple wavelengths for materials that have been poorly documented. Specifically, my aim is to create databases of the emission, reflectance and transmission of volcanic ash, both in loose sediment form for detection of deposits (on Earth or other planetary bodies), and in suspension for applications to the remote detection of ash during eruptions.
