Scientists have reported progress in developing a planetary instrument concept capable of 2D X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy. The instrument, dubbed Map-X, would be located on the arm of a robotic explorer, where it could then be placed directly on the surface of an object in order to make measurements.

Map-X could be used on future missions to study planetary surface processes, such as weathering, water activity, and biogenic activity; and would provide chemical imaging at higher spatial resolution that instruments used on previous robotic missions. The team developing Map-X believes that the instrument’s capabilities could yield results at high enough resolution to interpret physical, chemical and biological features in ancient rocks on planetary surface.

A paper outlining current studies on Map-X entitled, “MapX: 2D XRF for Planetary Exploration – Image Formation and Optic Characterization,” was published in the Journal of Instrumentation. The research was supported in part by the The Planetary Instrument Concepts for the Advancement of Solar System Observations (PICASSO) Program, which funds the development of spacecraft-based instrument systems that show promise for use in future planetary missions.

The PICASSO and Maturation of Instruments for Solar System Exploration (MatISSE) Programs are structured to ease the full development and maturation of instrument technologies. PICASSO supports instruments with Technical Readiness Levels (TRLs) 1 through 3, while MatISSE supports instruments TRLs 4 through 6. For more information, visit: https://astrobiology.nasa.gov/research/astrobiology-at-nasa/