Why Raman spectroscopy on Mars? - a case of the right tool for the right job

Ellery, Alex; Wynn-Williams, David. 2003 Why Raman spectroscopy on Mars? - a case of the right tool for the right job. Astrobiology, 3 (3). 565-579. 10.1089/153110703322610654

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Abstract/Summary

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 (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

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	10.1089/153110703322610654
Programmes:	BAS Programmes > Antarctic Science in the Global Context (2000-2005) > Life at the Edge - Stresses and Thresholds
Additional Keywords:	Mars exploration, Raman spectroscopy, astrobiology, robotic exploration
Date made live:	03 Apr 2012 10:36 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/17593

Item Type:

Publication - Article

Digital Object Identifier (DOI):

10.1089/153110703322610654

Programmes:

BAS Programmes > Antarctic Science in the Global Context (2000-2005) > Life at the Edge - Stresses and Thresholds

Additional Keywords:

Mars exploration, Raman spectroscopy, astrobiology, robotic exploration

Date made live:

03 Apr 2012 10:36 +0 (UTC)

URI:

https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/17593