Systems and methods for fluorescence detection with a mobile detection module

The fluorescence detection apparatus for analyzing samples located in a plurality of wells in a thermal cycler, the apparatus comprising: a support structure attachable to the thermal cycler; and a detection module movably mountable on the support structure, wherein the recognition module: an excitation light generator that is located in the detection module; and an emission light detector device that is located in the detection module; wherein when the support structure is attached to the thermal cycler and the detection module mounted on the support structure, the detection module is movable so that it is brought into optical communication with different ones of the plurality of wells.