Mossbauer spectroscopy on Mars and its potential contribution in the search for extraterrestrial life

Citation

Schröder C, Klingelhöfer G, Morris RV, Bernhardt B, Rodionov DS, de Souza PA & Renz F (2004) Mossbauer spectroscopy on Mars and its potential contribution in the search for extraterrestrial life. Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, 68 (S11), pp. A808-A808.

Abstract
For the first time in history a Mössbauer spectrometer was placed on the surface of another planet. The minaturized Mössbauer spectrometer MIMOS II, set up in backscattering geometry, is part of the payload of NASA’s twin Mars Exploration Rovers (MER) “Spirit” and “Opportunity”. They have measured the Fe-bearing mineralogy of several rocks and soil spots on two distinctly different landing sites, Gusev Crater and Meridiani Planum, spaced halfway across the planet. From orbital observations both landing sites have been associated with ancient water activity and are thus prime sites for the search for possible past or present life on Mars.

Journal
Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta: Volume 68, Issue S11

People

Dr Christian Schroeder

Senior Lecturer, Biological and Environmental Sciences