Composition and Origin of Martian Surface Material, Remote Detection of Minerals, and Applications to Astrobiology

Martian surface composition and processes are under study through analysis of spectral, magnetic and chemical data from Mars and analysis of laboratory analog materials. The focus of this study is on potential lander/rover measurements of weathered volcanic tephra and hydrothermal rocks because these samples resulted from processes that may have occurred on Mars. Fine-grained particles from these sources may be responsible for origination of the dust/soil on Mars that is shaping the planet's surface character. Alteration on the surface of Mars likely includes both chemical and physical interactions of soil particles and rock surfaces. Many of the minerals present in hydrothermal samples may be associated with organisms and may be useful as indicators of life or environments supportive of life on Mars. Characterization of the spectroscopic properties in the visible/near-infrared (VIS/NIR) and mid-infrared (IR) regions using reflectance, emittance and Raman, as well as the thermal properties of minerals thought to be present on Mars are being performed in order to identify them remotely. Particular interest is directed toward locating minerals, and hence landing sites, important to Astrobiology.