Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in planetary exploration and space research: a review of progress, challenges and opportunities

The ability to detect and quantify organic molecules at extremely low concentrations makes the Surface-enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) an analytical technique increasingly employed in multiple fields of research, including biomedicine, agriculture, food, forensics and environmental monitoring. In recent years, the validation and operation of Raman spectrometers in planetary exploration missions paved the way toward the potential application of SERS beyond terrestrial domains. Aiming at compiling all relevant works published to date, the present review provides a detailed overview of the fields of space research in which the potential use of SERS is being investigated, including astrobiology and astronaut health monitoring. While listing the major challenges that currently limit the adoption of SERS in space, this work also details the main methods and procedures that are being investigated for their mitigation.