Raman spectroscopy and its applications in Earth and planetary science

Advancements in lasers, spectrographs, and holographic optical components have made Raman spectroscopy an effective tool for non-destructive analysis of natural and synthetic materials. These advances have led to the development of both micro-Raman and remote Raman instrumentation for a lander or rover for planetary exploration. At the University of Hawaii (UH), we have developed remote Raman spectroscopic systems capable of measuring Raman spectra of minerals, inorganic and organic chemicals, and biogenic materials during daytime and nighttime to radial distances in the range 1 to 120 m. In this work, the authors review the current status of time-resolved remote Raman (TR³) spectroscopic instrumentation and its applications in Earth and planetary science.