ABB has been awarded a contract by the Canadian Space Agency to develop a mobile infrared spectrometer. Using this instrument, the Canadian lunar rover will analyze soil samples.
ABB has been commissioned by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to develop the concept of a mobile infrared spectrometer. As stated by ABB, the instrument called the Autonomous Lunar Exploration Infrared Spectrometer (ALExIS) will be used in conjunction with the Lunar Utility Rover. For ALExIS, the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), previously developed by the Zurich-based company, will be adapted to the specific conditions on the surface of the Moon.
The instrument will be used to analyze lunar soil samples. In this context, it should be capable of detecting molecules from the edge of the visible spectrum to the thermal infrared range, according to ABB. The mission aims to identify elements such as oxygen, silicon, iron, aluminum, calcium, and magnesium, while also seeking to verify the existence of water ice.
“We are extremely proud to be part of this important next chapter of lunar exploration,” said Marc Corriveau, General Manager of the ABB Measurement & Analytics division in Canada, adding: “Our FTIR analytical technology has already delivered reliable, high-precision results in demanding industrial environments on Earth, and it can now provide the same level of performance in the exploration of the Moon.”
Source: Swisstrade