Low Cost Micro-Spectrometer for Resource Mapping on Mars

Scientific measurements within craters and along steep embankments on Mars pose extreme challenges since astronauts and rovers cannot access them. However, these areas offer the potential for thegreatest scientific return. NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) has invented a deployable wireless micro-spectrometer [1-13] capable of accessing thosechallenging areas and, using telemetry, send measurements to a receiver safely outside those extreme environments. A prototype of the micro-spectrometer concept was fabricated and successfullytested for measurement of dopamine as a neural probe [14]. The bullet-sized micro-spectrometer concept can be designed for deployment by an astronaut, a rover, an aerial drone, or a lander, and the measurements broadcasted back to a receiver [13,15,16]. This device can also be installed on rovertires, under the astronaut’s boots, or a cane stick. The bullet-like consumable micro-spectrometer can penetrate soil to spectrally identify the components ofthe soil, such as water or minerals. The signals of the soil assay data are transmitted to a mother station through a telemetry system. The LaRC developed micro-spectrometer bullet consists of micro-spectrometer optics with an all imbedded burst-mode LED UV light source, a super-capacitor with control electronics, and telemetry electronics. Prototypes have been fabricated to demonstrate spectral assay of soil components. Further maturation of this technology would be necessary for demonstration on Mars. Future work includes a potential R&D program that includes other NASA Centers and industry partners interested in developing a business case that requires knowledge of the locations of extraterrestrial ice, for instance.