• Hazen, R. M.
• Brucato, J. R.
• Cody, G. D.
• Siljeström, S.
• Steele, A.
• Ten Kate, I. L.

Abstract

Laboratory simulations of planetary environments like Mars are crucial for supporting the scientific activity and technology development of life detection space flight instruments [1-5]. Studies about the stability of molecular biomarkers in a Martian-like environment allow us to explore the conditions for the preservation of biomarkers and develop models for their degradation in the Martian geological record. A systematic study of the effects of UV radiation and the presence of perchlorates on a variety of molecule-mineral complexes mimicking Martian soil can be key for choosing the landing sites for future space missions, as well as the selection of the most interesting samples to analyze in situ or/and collect for sample return. Testing the sensitivity of different techniques for detection of the diagnostic features of biomarkers embedded into mineral matrices as function of the biomarker concentration helps the choice, design and operation of flight instruments, as well as the interpretation of data collected on the ground during mission operative periods. <P />In this regard, we present laboratory activities pertaining to: (i) the synthesis of Mars soil analogues doped with organic compounds that are considered potential molecular biomarkers; (ii) the UV-irradiation processing of the Mars soil analogues under Martian-like conditions; and (iii) the characterization of the Mars soil analogues through various techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman vibrational spectroscopies, powder X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). <P />Such studies have been shown to be very informative in identifying mineral deposits most suitable for preservation of organic compounds, while highlighting the complementarity of different techniques for biomarkers detection, which is critical for ensuring the success of space missions devoted to the search for signs of life on Mars. <P />[1] Fornaro T. et al. (2013) Icarus, 226 (1), 1068-1085. [2] Fornaro T. et al. (2013) Planet. Space Sci., 86, 75-79. [3] Steele A. et al. (2016) Meteorit. Planet. Sci., 51 (11), 2203-2225. [4] ten Kate I. L. and Reuver M. (2016) Netherlands J. Geosci., 95 (2), 183-189. [5] Fornaro T. et al. (2018) Icarus, 313, 38-60....

Topics

• impedance spectroscopy
• mineral
• compound
• simulation
• powder X-ray diffraction
• organic compound
• spectrometry
• selective ion monitoring
• secondary ion mass spectrometry