Raman signal processing software for automated identification of mineral phases and biosignatures on Mars

Appl Spectrosc. 2008 Apr;62(4):364-70. doi: 10.1366/000370208784046704.

Abstract

Data from the ESA ExoMars Rover Mission will provide invaluable input for further studies in astro/exobiology. The search for mineral products as indicators of present and/or past biogenetic activities in Mars' surface and subsurface samples is the main objective of the compact Raman-laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument. The inherent features of Raman spectroscopy and LIBS make the combined instrument a unique and very powerful tool in the search for biomarkers and hence it is regarded as the highest priority instrument for mineral analysis within the mission. We have developed a software package for the on-board processing of the instrument's data outputs, including spectral conditioning and search-match characterization of mineral phases and biomarkers. In this paper we show the mathematical and physical basis of the software package.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Exobiology
  • Extraterrestrial Environment / chemistry*
  • Fourier Analysis
  • Geology / instrumentation
  • Geology / methods*
  • Mars*
  • Minerals / analysis*
  • Software*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / methods*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Minerals