Spectroscopic techniques and sensors for the exploration of extraterrestrial environments: a review

The exploration of solar system bodies is now for decades a focus of activities of space agencies around the world. The motivation ranges from gaining a better understanding of the geology of e.g. planets and moons to the search for traces of (former) life. The developed spectroscopic sensors reach from passive infrared spectrometers employed e.g. on orbiters to active laser spectroscopies such as NIR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy or Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy employed on robotic missions. Space, weight and power restrictions as well as robustness against harsh environmental conditions are inherent prerequisites for space missions and lead to specific design solutions for these instruments. In this review an overview is given, presenting the application and design of selected spectroscopic sensors and techniques employed in past missions. Thereafter, emerging sensors concepts and technologies are presented which are currently investigated for use in future space missions.