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In-Situ Planetary Chemical AnalysisBoth, the search for evidence of life on Mars and the assessment of the Martian environment in respect to its compatibility with human explorers, will require the ability to measure and understand the aqueous chemistry of the Martian regolith. Direct in-situ chemical analysis is the only method by which chemical biosignatures can be reliably recognized and the toxicity of the regolith accurately assessed. Qualitative and quantitative determination of the aqueous ionic constituents and their concentrations is critical in developing kinetic and thermodynamic models that can be used to accurately predict the potential of the past or present Martian geochemical environment to have either generated or still sustain life. In-situ chemical characterization could provide evidence as to whether the chemical composition of the regolith or evaporates in suspected ancient water bodies have been biologically influenced.
Document ID
20010023144
Acquisition Source
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Kounaves, S. P.
(Tufts Univ. Medford, MA United States)
Buehler, M. G.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA United States)
Grannan, S. M.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA United States)
Hecht, M. H.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA United States)
Kuhlman, K. R.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 2000
Publication Information
Publication: Concepts and Approaches for Mars Exploration
Issue: Part 1
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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