article_snippet: The experimental sensor, developed by researchers at Nasa and the University of Central Florida, was being tested ahead of plans to send the device to other planets.
article_snippet: Capable of detecting traces of gas at parts per trillion - far more sensitive from current technologies - it could reveal the existence of life on other planets.
article_snippet: Professor Robert Peale, a physicist at the University of Central Florida Central Florida who is leading the project, said: 'Professor Robert Peale, a physicist at the University of Central Florida who is leading the project has the potential to detect specific gases at extremely low concentrations. '
article_snippet: The toaster-sized device uses a technique known as 'intracavity laser absorption spectrometry' to detect small amounts of gas.
article_snippet: Most atmospheric probes used to day are unable to measure the concentration of trace vapours or gases.
article_snippet: However Scientists working with Nasa believe the device could also have applications on Earth to help monitor changes in the ozone layer as well as helping to detect traces of gas in breath tests to help diagnose disease.
article_snippet: The Planetary Atmospheres Minor Species Sensor, shown above sitting on top of laboratory equipment being used to calibrate the device, is about the size of a domestic toaster and can detect minute traces of gases .
highlights_snippet: Planetary Atmospheres Minor Species
highlights_snippet: Sensor can detect tiny traces of gas .
  
highlights_snippet: Sensor can detect just one molecule of methane among a trillion other molecules .
  
highlights_snippet: Nasa hope to send Toaster-sized instrument to Mars and other planets to search for signs of life .