Astronomy & Space Sciences

The project aims to simulate the process of Space Weathering (SW) on analogue samples of the surface of the Moon and asteroids in the laboratory using 1-40 keV ions (H+, He+ and Ar+) and femtosecond laser beams. The space weathered sample will be studied using IR-spectroscopy, electron microscopy and atom-probe tomography to understand nanoscale structural, chemical and mineralogical changes and its effects on the optical properties. This study will have direct implication for interpretation of data from the Chandrayaan missions and future planetary exploration programmes.