Lichen biomarkers upon heating: a Raman spectroscopic study with implications for extra-terrestrial exploration

2016 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 74-81 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. Miralles ◽  
C. Capel Ferrón ◽  
V. Hernández ◽  
J. T. López-Navarrete ◽  
S. E. Jorge-Villar

AbstractLithopanspermia Theory has suggested that life was transferred among planets by meteorites and other rocky bodies. If the planet had an atmosphere, this transfer of life had to survive drastic temperature changes in a very short time in its entry or exit. Only organisms able to endure such a temperature range could colonize a planet from outer space. Many experiments are being carried out by NASA and European Space Agency to understand which organisms were able to survive and how. Among the suite of instruments designed for extraplanetary exploration, particularly for Mars surface exploration, a Raman spectrometer was selected with the main objective of looking for life signals. Among all attributes, Raman spectroscopy is able to identify organic and inorganic compounds, either pure or in admixture, without requiring sample manipulation. In this study, we used Raman spectroscopy to examine the lichen Squamarina lentigera biomarkers. We analyse spectral signature changes after sample heating under different experimental situations, such as (a) laser, (b) analysis accumulations over the same spot and (c) environmental temperature increase. Our goal is to evaluate the capability of Raman spectroscopy to identify unambiguously life markers even if heating has induced spectral changes, reflecting biomolecular transformations. Usnic acid, chlorophyll, carotene and calcium oxalates were identified by the Raman spectra. From our experiments, we have seen that usnic acid, carotene and calcium oxalates (the last two have been suggested to be good biomarkers) respond in a different way to environmental heating. Our main conclusion is that despite their abundance in nature or their inorganic composition the resistance to heat makes some molecules more suitable than others as biomarkers.

2012 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 269-278 ◽  
Author(s):  
Howell G.M. Edwards ◽  
Ian B. Hutchinson ◽  
Richard Ingley

AbstractThe survival strategies of extremophilic organisms in terrestrially stressed locations and habitats are critically dependent on the production of protective chemicals in response to desiccation, low wavelength radiation insolation, temperature and the availability of nutrients. The adaptation of life to these harsh prevailing conditions involves the control of the substratal geology; the interaction between the rock and the organisms is critical and the biological modification of the geological matrix plays a very significant role in the overall survival strategy. Identification of these biological and biogeological chemical molecular signatures in the geological record is necessary for the recognition of the presence of extinct or extant life in terrestrial and extraterrestrial scenarios. Raman spectroscopic techniques have been identified as valuable instrumentation for the detection of life extra-terrestrially because of the use of non-invasive laser-based excitation of organic and inorganic molecules, and molecular ions with high discrimination characteristics; the interactions effected between biological organisms and their environments are detectable through the molecular entities produced at the interfaces, for which the vibrational spectroscopic band signatures are unique. A very important attribute of Raman spectroscopy is the acquisition of molecular experimental data non-destructively without the need for chemical or mechanical pre-treatment of the specimen; this has been a major factor in the proposal for the adoption of Raman instrumentation on robotic landers and rovers for planetary exploration, particularly for the forthcoming European Space Agency (ESA)/National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) ExoMars mission. In this paper, the merits of using Raman spectroscopy for the recognition of key molecular biosignatures from several terrestrial extremophile specimens will be illustrated. The data and specimens used in this presentation have been acquired from Arctic and Antarctic cold deserts and a meteorite crater, from which it will be possible to assess spectral data relevant for the detection of extra-terrestrial extremophilic life signatures.


2022 ◽  
Vol 14 (4) ◽  
pp. 58-66
Author(s):  
Aleksandr Kozyukov ◽  
N. Gamzatov ◽  
Sergey Grechanyy ◽  
Konstantin Zolnikov ◽  
I. Strukov ◽  
...  

The analysis of information on the stability of the electronic component base (ECB) in the development of radio-electronic equipment (REE) of spacecraft (spacecraft) is an important and urgent task. The paper considers the main components of the approaches of foreign organizations developing radio space technology to ensure its radiation resistance. The design approaches of Thales Alenia Space, Airbus Defense and Space, and the European Space Agency are presented. The article outlines the main directions for optimizing the procedures for the preliminary selection of ECB, which consist in ensuring the required resistance of REE SC at the ECB level with ensuring the reliability of data on durability, in minimizing the costs of applying resistance enhancement measures (through the use of a promising ECB with increased resistance characteristics), to replace ECB.


Author(s):  
Craig P Marshall ◽  
Alison Olcott Marshall

The search for sp 2 -bonded carbonaceous material is one of the major life detection strategies of the astrobiological exploration programmes of National Aeronautics and Space Administration and European Space Agency (ESA). The ESA ExoMars rover scheduled for launch in 2018 will include a Raman spectrometer with the goal of detecting sp 2 -bonded carbonaceous material as potential evidence of ancient life. However, sp 2 -bonded carbonaceous material will yield the same Raman spectra of well-developed G and D bands whether they are synthesized biologically or non-biologically. Therefore, the origin and source of sp 2 -bonded carbonaceous material cannot be elucidated by Raman spectroscopy alone. Here, we report the combined approach of Raman spectroscopy and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry biomarker analysis to Precambrian sedimentary rocks, which taken together, provides a promising new methodology for readily detecting and rapidly screening samples for immature organic material amenable to successful biomarker analysis.


2018 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 65
Author(s):  
Łukasz Kułaga

The 50 th anniversary of the constitution of international space law – 1967 Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (hereinafter Outer Space Treaty) coincided with enacting legislation regarding the commercial use of the space resources by the United States in November 2015 and preparation of an analogical act on the other side of the Atlantic, in Luxemburg. These domestic initiatives commenced an intensive discussion with regard to its legality, legitimacy and suitability. Until now the debate related to exploitation of the space natural resources was to large extend concentrated on the interpretation of fundamental customary and Outer Space treaty principles and did not take into account new scientific tools, which can significantly contribute to the assessment of the space mining governance. As first such a instrument – this article recognizes current international consultations on the marine genetic resources aimed at creation of new international regime, which can have several important similarities with the space law resources regime. As the second instrument – this article identifies multilateralism-unilateralism dichotomy, which have practical implications for process of finding international framework relating to space mining. The issue of space mining is the subject of discussion on international fora. In particular from March 2017 it started to be discussed by the COPUOS Legal Subcommittee. The outer space technologies constitute a sector of global economy, which is considered as the most prospective one. According to European Commission “The space sector is both a driver to scientific progress and enables systems and services with growth potential (…) These systems and services (…) help us to address major societal challenges such as climate change, scarce resources. health, or the ageing of our population. (…) They stimulate innovation and competitiveness well beyond the space sector, and contribute to economic growth and job creation in almost all economic areas”. This assessment is supported by figures. According to European Space Agency: “In 2015, the global space economy maintained its long-term growth trend, expanding from 14% compared to 2014 and totaling 291.4 billion of euro. Thus, proposing new scientific instruments for international community aiming at evaluation of the space mining will  constitute a valuable tool in the search for appropriate model of governance in this regard.The 50 th anniversary of the constitution of internationalspace law – 1967 Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of Statesin the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon andOther Celestial Bodies (hereinafter Outer Space Treaty) coincided withenacting legislation regarding the commercial use of the space resources bythe United States in November 2015 and preparation of an analogical acton the other side of the Atlantic, in Luxemburg. These domestic initiativescommenced an intensive discussion with regard to its legality, legitimacyand suitability. Until now the debate related to exploitation of the spacenatural resources was to large extend concentrated on the interpretationof fundamental customary and Outer Space treaty principles anddid not take into account new scientific tools, which can significantlycontribute to the assessment of the space mining governance. As first such* Assistant professor, Faculty of Law and Administration, Cardinal Stefan WyszyńskiUniversity in Warsaw.66Łukasz Kułagaa instrument – this article recognizes current international consultationson the marine genetic resources aimed at creation of new internationalregime, which can have several important similarities with the spacelaw resources regime. As the second instrument – this article identifiesmultilateralism-unilateralism dichotomy, which have practical implicationsfor process of finding international framework relating to space mining.The issue of space mining is the subject of discussion on internationalfora. In particular from March 2017 it started to be discussed by the COPUOSLegal Subcommittee. The outer space technologies constitute a sectorof global economy, which is considered as the most prospective one. Accordingto European Commission “The space sector is both a driver to scientificprogress and enables systems and services with growth potential (…) Thesesystems and services (…) help us to address major societal challenges suchas climate change, scarce resources. health, or the ageing of our population.(…) They stimulate innovation and competitiveness well beyond the spacesector, and contribute to economic growth and job creation in almostall economic areas”. This assessment is supported by figures. Accordingto European Space Agency: “In 2015, the global space economy maintainedits long-term growth trend, expanding from 14% compared to 2014 andtotaling 291.4 billion of euro. Thus, proposing new scientific instrumentsfor international community aiming at evaluation of the space mining willconstitute a valuable tool in the search for appropriate model of governancein this regard


Cephalalgia ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 35 (4) ◽  
pp. 335-343 ◽  
Author(s):  
WPJ van Oosterhout ◽  
GM Terwindt ◽  
AA Vein ◽  
MD Ferrari

Background Headache is a common symptom during space travel, both isolated and as part of space motion syndrome. Head-down-tilted bed rest (HDTBR) studies are used to simulate outer space microgravity on Earth, and allow countermeasure interventions such as artificial gravity and training protocols, aimed at restoring microgravity-induced physiological changes. Objectives The objectives of this article are to assess headache incidence and characteristics during HDTBR, and to evaluate the effects of countermeasures. Methods In a randomized cross-over design by the European Space Agency (ESA), 22 healthy male subjects, without primary headache history, underwent three periods of –6-degree HDTBR. In two of these episodes countermeasure protocols were added, with either centrifugation or aerobic exercise training protocols. Headache occurrence and characteristics were daily assessed using a specially designed questionnaire. Results In total 14/22 (63.6%) subjects reported a headache during ≥1 of the three HDTBR periods, in 12/14 (85.7%) non-specific, and two of 14 (14.4%) migraine. The occurrence of headache did not differ between HDTBR with and without countermeasures: 12/22 (54.5%) subjects vs. eight of 22 (36.4%) subjects; p = 0.20; 13/109 (11.9%) headache days vs. 36/213 (16.9%) headache days; p = 0.24). During countermeasures headaches were, however, more often mild ( p = 0.03) and had fewer associated symptoms ( p = 0.008). Conclusions Simulated microgravity during HDTBR induces headache episodes, mostly on the first day. Countermeasures are useful in reducing headache severity and associated symptoms. Reversible, microgravity-induced cephalic fluid shift may cause headache, also on Earth. HDTBR can be used to study space headache on Earth.


This chapter describes the historical background, basic provisions, main contents, and key changes of the 1968 Space Rescue Agreement (Title: Agreement on the Rescue of Astronauts, the Return of Astronauts and the Return of Objects Launched Into Outer Space). The author points out the legal problems and the solution on the 1965 Rescue Agreement. The Rescue Agreement requires that any state party that becomes aware that the personnel of a spacecraft are in distress must notify the launching authority and the Secretary General of the United Nations. The UN General Assembly adopted the text of the Rescue Agreement on 19 December 1967 through Resolution 2345 (XXII). The Agreement opened for signature on 22 April 1968, and it entered into force on 3 December 1968. As of January 2019, 98 states have ratified the Rescue Agreement, 23 have signed, and three international intergovernmental organizations (the European Space Agency, the Intersputnik International Organization of Space Communications, and the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites) have declared their acceptance of the rights and obligations conferred by the agreement.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sabrina Kerber ◽  
Ariane Wanske ◽  
Michaela Musilova ◽  
Bernard Foing

<p><strong>Introduction<br></strong>Concepts for designs of extra-terrestrial habitats are experiencing a growing importance in the space industry. New technologies and innovative materials bring the need for novel spatial arrangements in these habitats. Two of the most important components to improve habitability in extra-terrestrial habitats - the situation of privacy and color application - have been addressed in a lunar simulation (EMMIHS-II) at the Hawai´i Space Exploration Analog and Simulations (HI-SEAS) habitat. This analog astronaut mission was initiated by the European Space Agency’s (ESA) EuroMoonMars (EMM) and International Lunar Exploration Working Group (ILEWG) in cooperation with the International MoonBase Alliance (IMA).<br>The question of how much privacy is necessary to create a liveable environment in an extra-terrestrial habitat has engaged space architects for the last decades. [1] The same keen interest has been attributed to the importance of color in guiding architectural conceptions in the often colour-less environment of outer space. [2] <br>Less attention has been paid to the issue of semi-private space. Past analog astronaut missions at the HI-SEAS facility came across not only a lack of private space but also a scarcity of areas crew members could retreat to without completely leaving the common space. [2] Such semi-private areas bear great potential both from a spatial and psychological point of view.</p><p><strong>Methodology<br></strong>The research results presented here are based on several experiments conducted during the EMMIHS-II lunar simulation at the HI-SEAS Mars/Moon Research Facility.Potential benefits on crew cohesion, work effectiveness and personal mood were studied through setting up a semi-private area and assessing its use by the crew.<br>Further experiments investigated the analog astronauts’ reaction to disparate color situations inside the habitat and this semi-private space.<br>The findings will serve as a basis for future architectural design concepts in extra-terrestrial habitats and also offer the potential for further investigations during future analog missions.</p><p><strong>Acknowledgements<br></strong>First, we would like to thank our fellow EMMIHS-II crew members (M. Musilova, A. J. D’Angelo, A. P. Castro de Paula Nunes, C.R. Pouwels) and the EMMIHS-II mission sponsors. In addition, our gratitude goes out to the HI-SEAS Mission Control, ground support at ESA/ESTEC and the ILEWG EuroMoonMars manager, Prof. B. H. Foing, for enabling this research.</p><p> </p><p><strong>References<br></strong>[1] K. Kennedy, S. Capps (2000). Designing Space Habitation. Space 2000. 10.1061/40479(204)6.<br>[2] I. Schlacht, H. Birke (2011). Space design: Visual interface of space habitats. Personal and Ubiquitous Computing. 15. 497-509. 10.1007/s00779-010-0326-4.<br>[3] S. Häuplik-Meusburger, K. Binsted et al (2017). Habitability Studies and Full Scale Simulation Research: Preliminary themes following HISEAS mission IV.<br>[4] Musilova, M., Rogers, H., Foing, B.H. et al (2019). EMM IMA HI-SEAS campaign February 2019. EPSC-DPS2019-1152.<br>[5] EuroMoonMars Instruments, Research, Field Campaigns and Activities 2017-2019. Foing, B.H., EuroMoonMars 2018-2019 Team. 2019 LPI Contrib. No. 3090.</p>


1994 ◽  
Vol 48 (7) ◽  
pp. 875-883 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel R. Lombardi ◽  
Chao Wang ◽  
Bin Sun ◽  
Augustus W. Fountain ◽  
Thomas J. Vickers ◽  
...  

Raman spectra have been measured for a number of nitrates, nitrites, sulfates, ferrocyanides, and ferricyanides, both in the solid phase and in aqueous solution. Accurate locations of peak maxima are given. Limits of detection for some of the compounds are given for solutions and for solid mixtures in NaNO3. Preliminary measurements have been made on core material recovered from the storage tanks on the Hanford site in Richland, Washington. Representative spectra are presented, showing that it is possible to observe responses of individual components from measurements made directly on untreated cores, with the use of a fiberoptic sampling probe.


Author(s):  
Claudio Miccoli ◽  
Alessandro Turchi ◽  
Pierre Schrooyen ◽  
Domenic D’Ambrosio ◽  
Thierry Magin

AbstractThis work deals with the analysis of the cork P50, an ablative thermal protection material (TPM) used for the heat shield of the qarman Re-entry CubeSat. Developed for the European Space Agency (ESA) at the von Karman Institute (VKI) for Fluid Dynamics, qarman is a scientific demonstrator for Aerothermodynamic Research. The ability to model and predict the atypical behavior of the new cork-based materials is considered a critical research topic. Therefore, this work is motivated by the need to develop a numerical model able to respond to this demand, in preparation to the post-flight analysis of qarman. This study is focused on the main thermal response phenomena of the cork P50: pyrolysis and swelling. Pyrolysis was analyzed by means of the multi-physics Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code argo, developed at Cenaero. Based on a unified flow-material solver, the Volume Averaged Navier–Stokes (VANS) equations were numerically solved to describe the interaction between a multi-species high enthalpy flow and a reactive porous medium, by means of a high-order Discontinuous Galerkin Method (DGM). Specifically, an accurate method to compute the pyrolysis production rate was implemented. The modeling of swelling was the most ambitious task, requiring the development of a physical model accounting for this phenomenon, for the purpose of a future implementation within argo. A 1D model was proposed, mainly based on an a priori assumption on the swelling velocity and the resolution of a nonlinear advection equation, by means of a Finite Difference Method (FDM). Once developed, the model was successfully tested through a matlab code, showing that the approach is promising and thus opening the way to further developments.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document