Exobiological prospecting

Several emerging technologies are being investigated for detecting potential extraterrestrial microbial life, either extinct and/or extant (living). These technologies are particularly relevant for future exobiological searches on Mars and Europa, the two most promising candidates in this solar system for harbouring extraterrestrial life. Two systems are discussed: ATP measurement and Raman spectroscopy. In particular, experiments are described in which samples from Antarctica (an analogue environment for ancient Mars) have been analysed using Raman spectroscopy. This technology is perhaps the most versatile for searching for both extinct and extant organisms.