The use of a pulsed laser ionization source has expanded the utility of mass spectrometry on Earth into the polymeric and macromolecular analytical regime. The Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer on the 2020 ExoMars Rover will be the first to take the analytical capability of laser desorption/ionization to the surface of another planet. Our recent development efforts are applying the confluence of terrestrial techniques to analyze biomolecular samples and the flight qualification of laser desorption/ionization techniques for Mars to a future instrument concept, with the goal of enabling in situ chemical analysis across a broad range in volatility, molecular weight, and organic complexity. Implications for characterization of complex surface chemistry in a variety of planetary environments, including those potentially harboring molecular fossils or even extant life, will be discussed.

Laser desorption mass spectrometry: MOMA-MS and beyond

2019 Spring National Meeting

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