LIBS-based detection of geological samples at low pressures (<0.001 torr) for moon and asteroid exploration.
- Ronny D.
- David A.
- Cynthia
- Katharine M.
LIBS is under development for future use on surface probes to Mars. Under simulated Mars atmospheric composition and pressure (7 torr, predominately CO{sub 2}), LIBS has been shown useful for qualitative and quantitative analysis of geological samples at close and stand-off distances (19 m). Because of its many advantages compared to previously deployed and current in-use methods of elemental analysis (e.g. x-ray fluorescence, APXS), LIBS has potential for application to other planetary bodies. Of particular interest are the Moon and asteroids having very low ambient gas pressures at the surface. Because the laser plasma used by LIBS is sensitive to the surrounding atmosphere, it is important to determine analysis capabilities under these conditions. The results of a study of LIBS capabilities at low pressure is presented here for both in-situ and stand-off analysis.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Laboratory
- Sponsoring Organization:
- DOE
- OSTI ID:
- 977949
- Report Number(s):
- LA-UR-05-0667
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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