Abstract: A pure phase encode measurement method where the FID signal is encoded by a brief pure phase encode magnetic field gradient pulse. Data collection occurs once the gradient is turned off. Multiple free induction decay points acquired are identically encoded such that a full k space data set is acquired for each FID point. Fourier transformation of these data sets generates one, two or three dimensional images with consistent fields of view. The image series which results may be fit to a T2* decay function and the T2* magnetic resonance (“MR”) lifetime mapped. Fluid content (proton density) images may also be generated by this simple fitting procedure.