ISHMAEL: in-situ sample handling modular analytical experimental laboratory [for planetary surface exploration]

In-situ instruments are an integral part of mission designs for exploration of planetary surfaces. A technology gap exists today between sample acquisition and sample analysis tools. Integrated science payload packages need an integrated sample handling system. One approach is to transport and manipulate samples from a few microns up to /spl sim/100 microns in diameter by a carrier fluid contained in microfluidic manifold of channels. We are developing a set of modular, reconfigurable, rapid prototyping components for sample manipulation. This set will consist of passive and active components. The passive components are easily stackable in three dimensions and can be built into complex distribution geometries to service many instruments. The active components will allow for sample sorting, gating and immobilization. We will use dielectrophoretic technology to manipulate particles in liquid flow. In addition to simply handling the sample we can also perform certain science tasks, such as dielectric spectroscopy or microscopic analysis of caged particles.