Exploring, sampling, and interpreting lunar volatiles in polar cold traps.

Area of Science:

• Lunar science
• Astrochemistry
• Planetary science

Background:

• Volatile deposits identified in lunar permanently shadowed regions (PSRs).
• Artemis Program aims to explore these deposits and return samples to Earth.
• Stable isotope analysis of volatiles can reveal sources and formation processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore lunar volatile deposits for the Artemis Program.
• To analyze stable isotope characteristics of volatiles to understand their origins.
• To address the challenges of sampling, preserving, and analyzing cryogenic lunar samples.

Main Methods:

• Stable isotope analysis (e.g., δD) of volatile species.
• Sample collection, preservation, and curation at cryogenic temperatures.
• Investigating the technological demands and risks associated with cryogenic sample return.

Main Results:

• Stable isotope signatures, such as δD, can identify solar wind contributions.
• Cryogenic temperatures are essential for preserving volatile integrity.
• Technological challenges and risks are significant for cryogenic sample handling.

Conclusions:

• Understanding lunar volatile origins requires advanced stable isotope analysis.
• Cryogenic sample handling is critical for maximizing scientific return from Artemis missions.
• Overcoming technological hurdles is key to successful lunar volatile exploration.