MEMS-based force-detected nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer for in situ planetary exploration

NMR is the most widely used spectroscopic technique for characterization of molecular structures and reactions. NMR is especially powerful in detecting the presence of water and distinguishing between arbitrary physisorbed and chemisorbed states. This ability is particularly important in the search for extraterrestrial life on planets such as Mars, where there are strong indications that liquid water exists or has existed previously. Conventional NMR technology based on magnetic induction is unsuitable for remote applications because these instruments are heavy and require excessive power. We recently demonstrated a new NMR technology based on magnetic force detection that is suitable for NMR analysis in remote environments and on small samples. This paper details our efforts toward realizing this technology on small scales using a MEMS approach. Applications of this new MEMS-based NMR method to planetary exploration are discussed.