L3VIN: Lunar-Laser-Lab for Volatiles INvestigation. A CLPS-compatible in situ lunar instrument

Evan Eshelman, Pablo Sobron, Kirby Simon, Nina Webb, Daniel Van Hoesen, Owen Pochettino, Alian Wang, Bradley Jolliff

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Lunar-Laser-Lab for Volatiles INvestigation (L3VIN) is a laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument under development that incorporates spatial mapping and imaging optical assemblies into a compact package that can be integrated into small rovers or landers to enable geochemical investigations on natural unprepared samples. L3VIN uses active laser beam steering technology developed by our team under several NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards, enabling return of 20 × 20 cm maps of elemental composition, including ISRU-relevant materials, at 1 m distance, targeting 1 mm/pixel resolution with detection limits of 1% wt/wt. Combined with a near-infrared reflectance instrument, L3VIN would enable geochemical and mineralogical information to be obtained from the same spot on the lunar regolith, providing ground-truth characterization and information regarding the distribution of lunar materials (hydrated/hydrous compounds, minerals, metals, and volatiles) in locations of high interest in the south polar region and the Gruithuisen Domes. This paper presents the L3VIN design and prototype instrument, and results from early testing.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2022 IEEE Aerospace Conference, AERO 2022
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
ISBN (Electronic)9781665437608
DOIs
StatePublished - 2022
Event2022 IEEE Aerospace Conference, AERO 2022 - Big Sky, United States
Duration: Mar 5 2022Mar 12 2022

Publication series

NameIEEE Aerospace Conference Proceedings
Volume2022-March
ISSN (Print)1095-323X

Conference

Conference2022 IEEE Aerospace Conference, AERO 2022
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBig Sky
Period03/5/2203/12/22

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