Fast Elemental and Molecular Interrogation Sensor (FEMIS) for In Situ Lunar and Martian Resource Utilization

Technical Abstract

The Fast Elemental and Molecular Interrogation Sensor (FEMIS) is an innovative technology designed to advance NASA's In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) missions on the Moon and Mars. FEMIS combines Ultraviolet/Visible/Near-Infrared (UVN) and Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) to enable real-time, non-contact analysis of planetary surfaces. This dual-spectroscopy approach provides a comprehensive detection capability, capturing both elemental and molecular data crucial for identifying and utilizing local resources.

In Phase II, the project focuses on miniaturizing and optimizing the FEMIS prototype to meet stringent Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) constraints for space deployment. The system's components, including a Q-switched laser, high-resolution UV-Visible spectrometer, and 2D FPA MCT detector for LWIR emissions, will be fully integrated into a compact unit. Advanced machine learning algorithms, refined in Phase I, will be further developed to enhance real-time data processing and material identification capabilities.

Local field tests will validate FEMIS’s performance in environments simulating lunar and Martian conditions, ensuring the system's readiness for space missions. By providing detailed, real-time data on the composition of lunar and Martian regolith, FEMIS will significantly reduce the reliance on Earth-supplied materials, enhancing the sustainability of human exploration and enabling new commercial opportunities in space resource utilization.

This Phase II effort positions FEMIS as a crucial tool for future NASA missions, offering robust performance in harsh extraterrestrial environments and supporting the extraction of vital resources necessary for long-term space exploration.

Potential NASA Applications:

FEMIS supports NASA’s ISRU objectives by enabling real-time, in-situ analysis of lunar and Martian regolith. It aids in the detection and extraction of essential resources like water, oxygen, and metals, crucial for long-term human exploration. The technology can be deployed on various mission platforms, including rovers and landers, enhancing resource mapping, NASA STTR 2023-II Solicitation and reducing dependency on Earth-supplied materials, thereby lowering mission costs.

Potential Non-NASA Applications:

FEMIS has broad applications beyond NASA, includes: environmental monitoring, mining, and industrial process control. Its ability to provide real-time analysis of materials is valuable in identifying contaminants, optimizing extraction processes, and ensuring safety. Potential industries include mining, oil and gas, environmental science, where precise, rapid chemical identification is critical.