We are currently exploring the use of deep ultraviolet (UV)-based spectroscopy for sensing of trace gases. Numerous gases have absorption features in the ultraviolet region. Novel Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that emit in the deep UV region have recently been developed. Through the use of deep UV LEDs comes the possibility to design sensors that meet the criteria (e.g. compact, robust, field deployable, inexpensive, low-power, highly sensitive sensors) needed for making atmospheric measurements in coastal regions and on ships and buoys for long-term and large spatial measurements.