In Situ Lunar Surface Measurements Via Miniature Gas Chromatography

The Lunar Exploration Analysis Group (LEAG) has placed a high priority on determining the nature, distribution and transport of volatiles on the moon. The objective of this proposal is to create chip scale gas chromatographs for lunar exploration. Under DARPA support, Cbana has created a new class of microGCs that are smaller than ever before and yet show performance similar to those of full scale commercial GCs. In the proposed work we will redesign the GCs so that they can separate and detect the likely volatiles on the moon. A key step will be to replace the single GC column in our current device with 3 columns in series integrated into the same package in the proposed device. We will develop methodology to construct columns with the proper coatings and integrate them into a single package. We will also explore the effects of the temperature gradients on the columns in the harsh environment near the lunar poles. The will enable cbana to design devices that will be effective on the moon in phase II.