In order to better understand the potential for life in the Solar System, it is important to understand the extreme limits where it can thrive. Given the rising costs of space exploration, it is vital that mission planners have the best idea of the environments they will encounter and the data they would expect to gain prior to sending spacecraft. The cavern system in Wind Cave National Park may serve as a model for studying other planetary bodies, specifically the moons of Saturn and Jupiter. Using novel in situ spectroscopy techniques, we are able to study the cave and its possibilities, including its mineral makeup, organic flow, and microbial systems without damaging or removing precious cave formations. Our team is working to create a model from the cavern to help in planning future missions to Icy Moons.

Spectroscopic characterization of Wind Cave National Park as a model for extraterrestrial environments

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ACS Spring 2023

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