Work

The IRIS reflectance IR database for space missions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is widely used in the analysis of a broad range of different materials. The technique is sensitive, well approved, non-destructive and can be used in-situ, making it ideal for remote applications. In relation to space missions, IR remote sensing has been shown to provide essential information about the compositions of planetary surfaces being studied. Because of its proven ability, IR spectroscopy has been a cornerstone of space missions for decades, playing a key role in identifying ices, minerals, and organic compounds on planets, moons, and asteroids. For the correct interpretation of remote sensing IR data, laboratory spectra of suitable analogue material are required, ideally in a dedicated database. Thus, the IRIS (InfraRed and Raman for Interplanetary Spectroscopy) laboratory in Münster generates spectra from analogue material similar to the materials expected to occur on planetary surfaces, especially Mercury, but also on other Solar System bodies without atmosphere, such as the Moon or asteroids. In this article, we present a continuously expanding database of infrared reflection spectra from laboratory measurements. The measured analogue materials were and are selected on the basis of previously published remote sensing observations and our own investigations (e.g., of the Moon and meteorites) or were produced internally. In addition, we present not only reflectance spectra, but also chemical and microscopic analyses, as well as Raman spectra. The database is online, free of charge, accessible without registration, and constantly being expanded ( http://IRIS.uni-muenster.de/ ). The database is particularly suitable for interpreting the upcoming data from the MERTIS instrument (MErcury Radiometer and Thermal Infrared Spectrometer) on the BepiColombo mission to Mercury, which will reach the final orbit around the planet in 2026.

Source: Advances in Space Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.asr.2025.12.048

Authors: I. Weber, M.P. Reitze, T. Heyer, A. Morlok, T. Grund, H. Hiesinger

Institution: University of Münster

Language: English

Topic: Planetary Science and Exploration

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,780

Funder: Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt