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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
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A Novel Technique for Raman Analysis of Highly Radioactive Samples Using Any Standard Micro-Raman Spectrometer
Published on: April 12, 2017
Application of radioactive sources in analytical instruments for planetary exploration
1Laboratory for Astrophysics and Space Research, Enrico Fermi Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA. tecon@tecon.uchicago.edu
Summary
Radioactive isotopes have been integral to planetary exploration instruments since the space age began. These isotopes enable chemical analysis of celestial bodies and provide power for space missions.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Space Exploration Technology
Background:
- Radioactive isotopes have a long history of use in analytical instrumentation for planetary exploration.
- Early missions like Surveyor utilized isotopes for lunar surface composition analysis.
- Modern instruments build upon these foundational techniques for enhanced capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical and current applications of radioactive isotopes in space exploration instrumentation.
- To highlight the evolution of isotopic analytical techniques for planetary science.
- To underscore the dual role of isotopes in both analysis and power generation for space missions.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical mission data and instrument designs.
- Analysis of isotope usage in Alpha Scattering Instruments (ASI) and Alpha Proton X-ray Spectrometers (APXS).
- Examination of radioisotope applications in X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Mössbauer spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- The isotope Curium-242 (Cm) was used in early lunar exploration (Surveyor missions).
- Curium-244 (Cm) is employed in advanced Alpha Proton X-ray Spectrometers (APXS) for Mars and comet missions.
- Cobalt-57 (Co), Iron-55 (Fe), and Plutonium-238 (Pu) are critical for various analytical instruments and power generation.
Conclusions:
- Radioactive isotopes are essential tools for in-situ chemical analysis in planetary exploration.
- Isotopic instrumentation has evolved significantly, offering more detailed compositional data.
- Radioisotopes like Plutonium-238 are indispensable for providing power and heat in deep space missions.
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