Raman spectroscopy of Mars relevant minerals at different atmospheric, pressure, and temperature conditions

Abstract

In the scope of the ExoMars mission Raman measurements will be performed with the RLS Spectrometer to identify organic compounds and mineral products as indicators of biological activity [1]. Minerals produced by water related processes as well as igneous minerals and their alteration products will be characterized. Furthermore, in this context it is of interest to assess the influence of the environmental conditions on the Raman spectra. Measurements performed under conditions different in temperature or pressure from normal environmental condition on Earth might have an influence on Raman spectra. Here Raman spectra of Mars relevant minerals are presented. The analysis is made in vacuum, and with pressure, temperature, and atmospheric composition corresponding to environmental conditions on Mars and for comparison on Earth