Standoff ultra-compact micro-Raman (SUCR) sensor for lunar surface exploration

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science
• Astrochemistry
• Geoscience

Background:

• Future lunar missions require in-situ analysis of surface composition.
• Understanding lunar habitability necessitates detailed chemical and mineralogical investigation.
• Identifying key resources like water ice is crucial for sustainable exploration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present Raman characterization of lunar simulants using a standoff ultra-compact micro-Raman (SUCR) sensor.
• To evaluate the SUCR sensor's suitability for analyzing diverse lunar surface samples.
• To demonstrate the sensor's capability for in-situ measurements supporting sample return missions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a NASA Langley developed standoff ultra-compact micro-Raman (SUCR) sensor.
• Characterized lunar relevant simulants including water, ice, organics, and mineral mixtures.
• Performed Raman spectroscopy for chemical and mineralogical identification.

Main Results:

• Successfully characterized water/ice, sulfur/naphthalene mixtures, and complex mineral simulants.
• Demonstrated the SUCR sensor's ability to map mineralogy and identify volatiles.
• Confirmed sensor's efficacy in analyzing mixed samples relevant to lunar south pole exploration.

Conclusions:

• The SUCR sensor is suitable for in-situ analysis of lunar surface samples.
• This technology supports identification of high-value samples for return missions.
• The sensor aids in understanding lunar habitability and resource potential.