LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) systems are capable of real-time chemical analysis with little or no sample preparation. A Q-switched laser is configured such that laser induced plasma is produced on targeted material. Chemical element line spectra are created, collected and analyzed by a fiber spectrometer. Line spectra emission data is instantly viewed on a head mounted display. "Eye-safe" Class I erbium glass lasers provide for insitu LIBS applications without the need for eye-protection goggles. This is due to the fact that Megawatt peak power Q-switched lasers operating in the narrow spectral window between 1.5um and 1.6um are approximately 8000 times more "eye-safe" than other laser devices operating in the UV, visible and near infrared.In this work we construct and demonstrate a LIBS system that includes a hand held eye-safe laser gun. The laser gun is fitted with a micro-integrating sphere in-situ target interface and is designed to facilitate chemical analysis in remote locations. The laser power supply, battery pack, computer controller and spectrophotometer components are packaged into a utility belt. A head mounted display is employed for "hands free" viewing of the emitted line spectra. The system demonstrates that instant qualitative and semi-quantitative chemical analyses may be performed in remote locations utilizing lightweight commercially available system components ergonomically fitted to the operator.

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A vacuum metalizing system developed for coating a 2.12 m astronomical telescope mirror is described. The 3 m diameter chamber, installed at 2800 m altitude at the Mexican National Astronomical Observatory at San Pedro Mártir, Baja California, was developed with uniquely economical equipment and simplicity of design to facilitate ease of operation, safe handling of the mirror, and reliability in this remote location. In order to meet strict performance specifications within a very limited budget, nontraditional equipment suppliers and fabricators were used. The project design and administration philosophy are described.