LILA: A Next-Generation Hybrid Analyzer for Planetary Missions

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Bernd Abel; Professorin Dr.-Ing. Sabine Klinkner
• Subject Area: Analytical Chemistry ; Mineralogy, Petrology and Geochemistry
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 569629267

This project investigates the capabilities and scientific potential of the newly developed LILA (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy & Laser Ablation Mass Spectrometry) instrument, currently in prototype form. Designed as a compact, integrated system for planetary exploration, LILA merges LIBS and LAMS techniques to enable comprehensive elemental, isotopic, and molecular analysis of planetary materials in vacuum and low-pressure environments such as those on the Moon and Mars. Utilizing a shared laser source, LILA combines Optical Emission Spectroscopy with a miniaturized Orbitrap mass analyzer for high-resolution detection. The central hypothesis is that the synergistic use of these methods will allow for unprecedented in situ characterization of geological and organic compounds, aiding in the understanding of planetary surface processes and supporting resource prospecting for future missions. This proposal aims to establish LILA as a next-generation analytical tool for deployment on rovers and landers in planetary science.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Czech Republic
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Jozef Kaiser, Ph.D.; Petr Kubelik, Ph.D.