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Decision support algorithm for the selection of analytical methods in organic compounds detection for future
Bence Mátyás1, Gabriela Bautista1, Máté Szarka2
1Carrera Ingeniería Ambiental, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, Quito, Ecuador.
Electrophoresis
|August 17, 2018
Summary
Scientists searched for organic molecules in extreme Earth soils, mimicking extraterrestrial conditions. A new software tool aids selecting analytical instruments for space missions, enhancing the search for extraterrestrial life.
Area of Science:
- Astrobiology and Space Exploration
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
Background:
- The search for extraterrestrial life is a key goal in space discovery.
- Extreme Earth environments serve as analogs for potential extraterrestrial habitats.
- Detecting organic molecules is crucial for identifying potential biosignatures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect organic molecules in terrestrial soil samples from extreme environments.
- To compare the efficacy of various analytical methods for organic molecule detection.
- To develop a decision support tool for selecting instruments for space missions.
Main Methods:
- High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
- Spectrophotometry (UV, IR)
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
- Vertical Gel Electrophoresis
- Custom software for instrument selection evaluation
Main Results:
- Successful detection of organic molecules in diverse soil samples.
- Comparative analysis of analytical techniques highlighted their strengths and weaknesses.
- Validation of a software tool for aiding instrument selection in mission planning.
Conclusions:
- Terrestrial extreme environments harbor organic molecules relevant to astrobiology.
- A systematic approach to analytical method selection is vital for successful space missions.
- The developed software tool can significantly aid space agencies like NASA in mission planning.
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