L3VIN: Lunar-Laser-Lab for Volatiles INvestigation. A CLPS-compatible in situ lunar instrument

Lunar-Laser-Lab for Volatiles INvestigation (L3VIN) is a laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument under development that incorporates spatial mapping and imaging optical assemblies into a compact package that can be integrated into small rovers or landers to enable geochemical investigations on natural unprepared samples. L3VIN uses active laser beam steering technology developed by our team under several NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards, enabling return of 20 × 20 cm maps of elemental composition, including ISRU-relevant materials, at 1 m distance, targeting 1 mm/pixel resolution with detection limits of 1% wt/wt. Combined with a near-infrared reflectance instrument, L3VIN would enable geochemical and mineralogical information to be obtained from the same spot on the lunar regolith, providing ground-truth characterization and information regarding the distribution of lunar materials (hydrated/hydrous compounds, minerals, metals, and volatiles) in locations of high interest in the south polar region and the Gruithuisen Domes. This paper presents the L3VIN design and prototype instrument, and results from early testing.