Detection of biosignatures on Mars using Raman spectroscopy
Résumé
Raman spectroscopy is able to detect both organic and mineral phases and is very sensitive to carbonaceous matter and biomolecules. It is thus particularly suited for the detection of biosignatures associated with present or ancient life. Thus, in the framework of the future missions to Mars dedicated to the search for traces of life on Mars (Mars 2020, NASA; ExoMars 2022, ESA/RosCosmos; Mars Sample Return, NASA/ESA), this method is extremely useful. Nevertheless, the sample preparation systems and the Raman spectrometers on-board the rovers are limited with respect to laboratory devices. These differences must be considered in preparation of these future missions.
In this presentation, the different aspects of Raman spectroscopy applied to biosignature characterisation will be described. The search for these biosignatures in situ on Mars and during the analyses of the samples brought back to Earth will then be discussed.