Best of the Week: Recognizing Albert A. Michelson, Studying Star Clusters, Elemental Analysis

This week, Spectroscopy published articles highlighting recent studies in several application areas in analytical spectroscopy, including gemology, pharmaceutical analysis, and space exploration. Key techniques highlighted in these articles include Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Happy reading!

Albert A. Michelson: A Pioneer of Interferometry and Precision Optical Spectroscopy

In this “Icons of Spectroscopy” column from executive editor Jerome Workman, Jr., Albert A. Michelson is honored for his contributions to optical science through his precise measurement of the speed of light and the invention of the interferometer. As the first American Nobel Laureate in science, Michelson’s contributions shaped spectroscopy and laid the groundwork for Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), a core method in modern analytical chemistry (1). His landmark Michelson-Morley experiment challenged the ether theory and paved the way for relativity (1). Renowned for his engineering and dedication to measurement accuracy, Michelson also influenced astronomy and education, leaving behind a legacy embedded in today’s spectroscopic and metrological technologies (1).

How Infrared Light Reveals the Truth About Gemstones

A new study published in Gems & Gemology by GIA scientists Christopher M. Breeding and Nicole J. Ahline highlights the role of FT-IR spectroscopy in gemology. FT-IR spectroscopy is a non-destructive technique based on measuring atomic vibrations, which reveals a gemstone’s composition, treatments, and origin by detecting trace elements and impurities (2). Since the GIA adopted FT-IR in 1986, it has become a cornerstone for analyzing diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and more (2). Especially effective in the mid-infrared (MIR) range, FT-IR uncovers treatments like fracture filling and distinguishes natural from synthetic stones, making it an essential tool in modern gemological analysis.

Using Spectroscopy to Study B-Type Stars in Open Cluster NGC 6834

A research team led by M. A. Ruiz Diaz from Argentina’s Universidad Nacional de La Plata used spectroscopy to study the open star cluster NGC 6834, which is located in the constellation Cygnus. Using data from the Gemini North telescope, the team analyzed 109 spectra of 89 stars, many for the first time, deriving key stellar parameters for 64 B-type stars (3). They confirmed the cluster’s average reddening value and discovered five new Be stars, two with strong Hα emissions (3). The study significantly expands the spectroscopic dataset for this region and offers new insights into stellar evolution and rotational dynamics in intermediate-age clusters.

New SERS Platform Enhances Real-Time Detection of Cardiovascular Drugs in Blood

Researchers from Harbin Medical University and Finland’s HST developed a surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) platform, enhanced by AI and DNA-based “molecular hooks,” to detect cardiovascular drugs in blood with high sensitivity. Published in Biosensors and Bioelectronics, the study showcases how silver nanoparticles and calcium ions form signal-enhancing hotspots, enabling detection at ultra-low concentrations (4). The platform accurately identifies drugs like dobutamine and milrinone, even in complex blood samples, and automates spectral analysis for faster diagnostics (4). Although further development is needed to expand its detection range, this innovation marks a major step toward real-time, personalized cardiovascular drug monitoring in clinical settings (4).

How do Pharmaceutical Laboratories Approach Elemental Impurity Analysis?

In a recent Q&A interview, Spectroscopy spoke with James Harrington of RTI International and Donna Seibert about their study on the challenges pharmaceutical laboratories face when implementing ICH Q3D and USP <232>/<233> guidelines for elemental impurity analysis. Published in the Journal of Trace Elements and Minerals, their study addresses how labs can adapt to these evolving risk-based regulatory frameworks (5). In Part I of the interview, the researchers discuss the regulatory impact on lab practices and detail the study’s design, aiming to provide technical guidance for laboratories navigating compliance with elemental impurity testing requirements in pharmaceutical development (5).

References

1. Workman, Jr., J. Albert A. Michelson: A Pioneer of Interferometry and Precision Optical Spectroscopy. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/albert-a-michelson-a-pioneer-of-interferometry-and-precision-optical-spectroscopy (accessed 2025-05-14).
2. Workman, Jr., J. How Infrared Light Reveals the Truth About Gemstones. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/how-infrared-light-reveals-the-truth-about-gemstones (accessed 2025-05-14).
3. Wetzel, W. Using Spectroscopy to Study B-Type Stars in Open Cluster NGC 6834. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/using-spectroscopy-to-study-b-type-stars-in-open-cluster-ngc-6834 (accessed 2025-05-14).
4. Wetzel, W. New SERS Platform Enhances Real-Time Detection of Cardiovascular Drugs in Blood. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/new-sers-platform-enhances-real-time-detection-of-cardiovascular-drugs-in-blood (accessed 2025-05-14).
5. Wetzel, W. How do Pharmaceutical Laboratories Approach Elemental Impurity Analysis? Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/how-do-pharmaceutical-laboratories-approach-elemental-impurity-analysis- (accessed 2025-05-14).