Czech Museum of Mass Spectrometry

HOW TO WEIGH A MOLECULE?

Imagine that you want to weigh a water molecule. You cannot just place it on a weighing pan because it certainly would not work. You need a much more sophisticated device called a mass spectrometer.

The first such instrument was constructed by J. J. Thomson in 1912. Since then, mass spectrometry has developed into a fascinating field with many practical applications.

Newborn screeningg, doping tests of athletes, analysis of pollutants, testing of new drugs or space exploration are only a few examples of the application of mass spectrometry. Yet there are many more.

Czech Museum of MS: Mass Spectrometer

MASS SPECTROMETER

A mass spectrometer is a remarkable instrument that provides information about the mass and structure of molecules. In essence, it is a very accurate scale for electrically charged molecules. However, such a scale does not resemble the traditional ones known from kitchens and pharmacies. It is an ingenious device that uses electric and magnetic fields to manipulate, separate and detect charged molecules. Some instruments also make it possible to break charged molecules into pieces, which is useful for deducing the molecular structure.

Czech Museum of MS: A gridless two-stage reflectron from the MALDI-TOF system Biflex II manufactured by Bruker Daltonics

OUR MISSION

The museum aims to collect and display artifacts in mass spectrometry, especially those associated with our geographical region. Students professionals and the general public can look a the key components of spectrometers and understand how mass spectrometers work. The technical solutions and stories behind the exhibits can inspire young scientists as wall as experienced designers of scientific instruments.

Czech Museum of MS: Mass Spectrometry history in Czech Republic

EXHIBITION

The exhibition shows instrument components tha are often hidden in inaccessible vacuum chambers of mass spectrometers. You can take a closer look at them, understand their function, and at the same time admire their technical perfection and beauty. Use your smartphone to learn more about the exhibit you are currently viewing. The posters on the walls will teach you about mass spectrometry and its history.

Czech Museum of MS: A grid cell of LTQ FT Ultra (Thermo Electron Corporation)

DONATE AN EXHIBIT

The museum accepts donations to its collection, especially instruments or parts of them (even broken, damaged or worn), documents, and photographs related to mass spectrometry and its history. All donations are highly appreciated.

Czech Museum of MS: EI source from the single quadrupole mass spectrometer TRIO 1000 manufactured by VG Masslab (Altrincham, UK)

Czech Museum of MS: A triple stage quadrupole LC-MS mass spectrometer TSQ Vantage manufactured by Thermo Scientific

FIND US HERE

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences

• Building A, 2nd floor
• Flemingovo náměstí 542/2
• 160 00 Praha 6
• Czech Republic

HOURS AND ADMISSION

The museum is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. A guide is required to move around the building.

Please call in advance to check the guide‘s availability.

• Inquiries: Josef Cvačka
• +420 731 447 868
• [email protected]

The admission is free for all visitors.

The Czech Academy of Sciences has contributed financially to the promotion of the museum.