Based on the absorption of optical radiation in long-wave infrared, the device was developed by scientists at the Military University of Technology in Warsaw.

By measuring trace concentrations of methane, a by-product of decomposed organic matter, the sensor, explains the university’s Col. Dr. Jacek Wojtas, is able to offer “fast measurements, large dynamic ranges and high selectivity.”

He added, “thanks to differential measurement procedures, periodic calibrations and replacement of worn parts are not required - and because of the latest developments in optoelectronic technologies, optical sensors can also be compact and energy-efficient.”

With longer waves capable of penetrating obscuring layers of aerosols and dust, Wojtas says the instrument could prove ideal for exploring space. “It may provide an important advantage when researching the atmosphere of various planets, for example Mars,” he said.

Any presence of methane would indicate evidence of other life forms.

Closer to home, Wojtas says that the instrument’s precision also stands to make it an important tool in measuring pollution.

“Methane is a very important substance because it is a component of natural gas, used as a fuel source for electricity generation and heating, and the second most common greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide, responsible for over one third of today's anthropogenic climate warming,” he said.

As such, the reliability of the sensor could see it play a vital role in the accurate calculation of pollutant levels, while its versatility could further see it harnessed to measure fuel purity or locate pipeline leaks.

Moreover, with methane also exhaled by humans, the sensor will also be able diagnose some illnesses and diseases through the analysis of a person’s breath.