NexGen Spectrum Tube, Helium

Demonstrate the spectrum of a gas discovered in the sun

The NexGen Spectrum Tube, Helium contains helium gas and runs on the NexGen Spectrum Tube Power Supply. It produces a soft yellow-orange glow when energized. Through a spectroscope, that glow resolves into a small number of sharp, bright lines: a strong yellow doublet near 587.6 nm, a red line near 667.8 nm, a green line near 501.6 nm, and several lines in the blue and violet. The spectrum is clean and easy to measure.

Helium has a story worth telling in class. In 1868, astronomers studying a solar eclipse found a yellow spectral line in the sun's light that matched no known element on Earth. They named it after Helios, the Greek sun god. It wasn't until 1895 that helium was isolated on Earth. A helium spectrum tube lets students observe the same signature that gave the element its name and connects the bench-top measurement directly to how astronomers identify the composition of distant stars today.

Why Teachers Love It

• The Story of Discovery Is Built Into the Demo – Helium was the first element identified by spectroscopy before anyone found it on Earth. Pointing that out while students measure its yellow line gives the history of atomic spectroscopy a concrete, memorable anchor.

• Built for Long-Term Classroom Use – No internal electrodes means the tube resists the wear that shortens conventional spectrum tube life. A hard polymer shell protects the glass from everyday bumps and drops.

• Continuous Use with the NexGen Power Supply – No timing restrictions. Students read and record spectral line positions at their own pace without a 30-second countdown.