Fourier Transform high-resolution mass spectrometry (FT-HRMS) is a powerful analytical technique that can unravel the molecular composition of a wide range of samples, even the most chemically complex. In the next decades, sample return missions from near-Earth carbonaceous asteroids, Mars, or comets will bring back to Earth extraterrestrial materials. These samples will be analyzed in curation facilities with state-of-the-art ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometers. Moreover, a new generation of very high-resolution mass spectrometers - CosmOrbitrap - has now reached TRL 5 and will be on board future space missions. These measurements will give a unique access to the degree of chemical complexity in a wide range of extraterrestrial environments, from the icy satellites' atmosphere and surface to comets and asteroids.<br/><br/>Dedicated experimental protocols for the acquisition of Orbitrap data for rare and precious samples and numerical tools for their treatment have been developed at the Institut de Planétologie et d'Astrophysique de Grenoble for the past decade. They provide access to (i) the sample elemental composition, (ii) specific molecules including those that may be important for the origins of life, (iii) the species degree of unsaturation and aromaticity, and (iv) chemical families and growth patterns. Laboratory analogs of planetary aerosols (Titan, Pluto, super-Earths) and ice residues (comets, Europa) as well as extraterrestrial matter (carbonaceous chondrites, Mars meteorites, lunar soils) have been extensively characterized. The evolution of their organic content upon hydrolysis or UV irradiation has been recorded. The emphasis is now on the coupling of mass spectrometry to liquid chromatography for a better characterization of the structure of the molecules and the adaptation of the protocols to sub-mm samples such as micro-meteorites.

Characterization of complex organic matter with fourier transform high-resolution mass spectrometry: Preparing for sample-return and <i>in situ</i> space missions

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.

Characterization of complex organic matter with fourier transform high-resolution mass spectrometry: Preparing for sample-return and in situ space missions