Novel laser-based techniques for monitoring of volcanoes

An overview of novel laser techniques suitable for volcano monitoring, based on different kinds of infrared laser sources is predented. Their advantages and drawbacks are discussed focusing on their achievable sensitivity and precision levels in analysis of gaseous species. Some of the most recent experimental results obtained in laboratory development as well as in field tests of home-build spectrometers are reported. New perspectives in optical devices aimed at geochemical and pgeophysical application are also considered.