Development of high-resolution, broadband Raman spectrometers for planetary exploration

Description

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful spectroscopic analysis technique, widely applied in geo-scientific areas such as mineralogy, gemology, planetary exploration, and astrobiology. It provides accurate and detailed molecular and structural information of planetary materials. Traditional micro-Raman techniques typically operate with a working distance of several centimeters or less, whereas tools with longer working distances are desirable for planetary exploration.

Remote Raman techniques, such as those developed in the early 1960s, have been employed to detect gases and identify solid inorganics and organics at distances up to ten meters. Several Raman systems have been proposed for in situ or remote detection on planetary surfaces for lander or rover missions. The University of Hawai’i's Raman spectroscopy laboratory has advanced a remote Raman instrument for planetary explorations, while Goddard Space Flight Center is currently demonstrating various Raman systems for planetary exploration.

Field of Science

Planetary Science

The Ideal Candidate

• A Ph.D in Planetary Sciences
• Experienced in developing Python programs to process and analyze spectral data
• Understands the principles of classic Raman Spectrometers, Spatial heterodyne Raman Spectrometer (SHRS), and UV-Vis Spectroscopy
• Has experience with instruments like SUPERCAM deployed on Mars
• Skilled in performing different forms of spectroscopy including LIBS, Raman, Time-resolved Fluorescence Spectroscopy, and Visible and InfraRed reflectance spectroscopy at a distance
• Experienced using vacuum and high-pressure systems
• Experienced in designing UV-VIS instrumentation

Qualifications

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Doctoral Degree

About the NASA Postdoctoral Program

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. Fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.