A multipass spectroscopic absorption cell comprises at least a first reflector (40) and a second reflector (42) that are configured to reflect a beam of light multiple times through a sample volume (V). At least one of the first and second reflectors (40,42) defines a principal optical axis (A) that extends through the sample volume (V). An optical folding system (52) is located on the principal optical axis (A) between the first and second reflectors, said optical folding system being configured to fold the principal optical axis (A) through an angle greater than 0°.