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Research project
My research project is carried on at the Arcetri Astrobiology Laboratory (INAF- Astrophysical Observatory of Arcetri) under the supervision of Dr. John Robert Brucato and Dr. Teresa Fornaro. Specifically, it is focused on the search for traces of extraterrestrial life on Martian surface.
The main objective is to creating a database of spectroscopic features of Martian analogue samples to support the interpretation of data collected by current and future Mars exploration missions with rovers, such as the NASA Mars 2020 and ESA ExoMars missions, while also expanding the availability of laboratory spectra for the interpretation of remote sensing of planetary rock surfaces. In addition, I am conducting experiments that shed light on the photostability of abiotic and biotic organic molecules on mineral matrices of Martian interest to determine which classes of molecule-mineral complexes will be most likely to be detected.
Laboratory scientific education
The rationale is that laboratory studies that realistically simulate the Martian environment are indispensable to support the analysis of in situ spectroscopic observations, as molecular spectroscopic features can be strongly influenced by interaction with minerals and salts, and by exposure to harsh Martian conditions such as high irradiation. Therefore, I am involving in the Martian analogue samples prepration, resulting in molecular-mineral complexes composed of minerals, salts, oxidants and relevant organic compounds, using methods that mimic natural processes that may have occurred over time in the Jezero crater and at Oxia Planum. For taking in account the Martian harsh environment, I stress the analogous samples with UV irradiation light and ions, in order to study possible transformations of organics under Martian-like conditions and to define molecular targets more precisely. Finally, I characterize the samples before and after irradiation using the Mars 2020 and ExoMars analogue payload instruments, to perform detectability/sensitivity tests.
I have experience with the use of many laboratory instruments, such as FTIR spectrometer, vacuum systems, UV sources for irradiation and analysis software such as OPUS and Matlab. I also have skills in sample preparation and handling. Finally, I participated to the management of the laboratory to supply materials for scientific research.
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