SHERLOC: Raman UV spectrometer to be sent with Mars 2020 rover mission to sense habitability

NASA recently revealed its plan for a comprehensive Mars mission in 2020. It will send a rover to the Red Planet for conducting an unprecedented detailed study of the planet. The mission will carry seven key payloads including SHERLOC-Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman & Luminescence for Organics and Chemicals.
SHERLOCis a spectrometer that will carry out fine-scale imaging and will use an ultraviolet (UV) laser to determine fine-scale mineralogy and detect organic compounds. It will conduct complementary measurements with other instruments. It is the first UV Raman spectrometer that will land on the surface of Mars. 
Mars 2020 rover mission will attempt to determine the potential habitability of the Mars environment, and directly search for signs of ancient Martian life.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2014

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs