MMX Mission - RAX Instrument

Raman Spektrometer for MMX (RAX)

The Raman Spectrometer for MMX (RAX) is a scientific instrument for the IDEFIX rover, which will be launched in 2026 as part of the Japanese Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission. The DLR Institute of Optical Sensor Systems (OS) led the development of the instrument and continues to lead the associated scientific team. OS utilizes its many years of experience in the application of Raman spectroscopy in planetary research and the development of spectrometers for space research. RAX is a particularly compact and lightweight instrument with a total weight of less than 1.5 kg and will investigate the composition of the surface of the Martian moon Phobos.

RAX Scientific Aims

RAX ist ein kompaktes Raman-Spektrometer zur Identifizierung der Gesteine und Mineralien auf dem Marsmond Phobos.

MMX Mission

The Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission is a JAXA project to explore the two moons of Mars, with a planned launch in the mid-2020s.

RAX Design

Das RAX-Instrument ist ein besonders kleines und leichtes Raman-Spektrometer basierend auf einem 532 nm CW-Laser, einem Gitterspektrometer und einem CMOS-Sensor.