Why Raman Spectroscopy on mars? A case of the right tool for the right job

被引:76
作者
Ellery, A
Wynn-Williams, D
机构
[1] Kingston Univ, Sch Engn, London SW15 2YB, England
[2] British Antarctic Survey, Cambridge CB3 0ET, England
关键词
Mars exploration; Raman spectroscopy; astrobiology; robotic exploration;
D O I
10.1089/153110703322610654
中图分类号
P1 [天文学];
学科分类号
0704 ;
摘要
We provide a scientific rationale for the astrobiological investigation of Mars. We suggest that, given practical constraints, the most promising locations for the search for former life on Mars are palaeolake craters and the evaporite deposits that may reside within them. We suggest that Raman spectroscopy offers a promising tool for the detection of evidence of former mer (or extant) biota on Mars. In particular, we highlight the detection of hopanoids as long-lived bacterial cell wall products and photosynthetic pigments as the most promising targets. We further suggest that Raman spectroscopy as a fibre optic-based instrument lends itself to flexible planetary deployment.
引用
收藏
页码:565 / 579
页数:15
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