Development of a Miniature Scanning Electron Microscope to Facilitate In Situ Lunar Science and Engineering

Returning humans to the Moon for prolonged periods will require extensive information on the properties and compositions of the lunar regolith, its resource potential, and in-situ characterization of the effects of space weathering of the soil and equipment. To address these concerns, we are developing a miniature Scanning Electron Microscope (mSEM), a project led by the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), for use on the lunar surface. Working within the lunar environment and at low-power provides opportunities to simplify the instrument, as well as sample preparation. The natural lack of an atmosphere eliminates the need and complexity of a vacuum chamber on the instrument and introduces the possibility of a "point-and-shoot" configuration for the mSEM. Imaging with low-power does not require sample coatings of carbon or gold, or the use of a gas, to mitigate surface charging on the sample; this low-power greatly simplifies sample preparation. Engineering and science activities on the lunar surface will benefit from the presence of an mSEM and its ability to determine particle size distribution (PSD), mineral chemistry, and the general characteristics of the regolith.