Sensing technologies for the challenging Lunar environment

Abstract

This study reviews major sensing technologies for the Lunar environment and its resources, as they have been developed since the times of Apollo missions. Selected technologies of sensors and instruments for the chemical, isotopic, and structural analysis of Lunar rocks and regoliths, as well as of the Lunar exosphere environment, are presented in a critical review towards an optimised and information-rich framework. Special focus is given on the activated Lunar regolith, and especially the Lunar dust, describing the development of Lunar simulants as the only accessible materials for experimentation and testing of the above technologies. New technologies are also highlighted, such as the development of the OxR microfluidic and spectroscopy integrated device, which, in its small scale aims to detect reactive oxygen species in the Lunar regolith, while in its larger format it is used to release oxygen gas from the Lunar dust and regolith, enabling astronaut respiration and fuel production on the Moon. It is finally suggested that miniaturisation of instruments and sensors, together with the standardisation of output information and characterisation protocols through holistic informational frameworks, will enhance the dynamic expansion and further integration and interoperation of sensors and devices, aiming to an efficient, safer, and resilient utilisation on the Moon and the establishment of sustainable settlements in the near future.