The Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (HFIPS) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Macao University of Science and Technology (MUST), and The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) signed an agreement to jointly establish the Joint Laboratory for Spectroscopic Detection of Matter Composition in Deep Space (Lab-DeepSpec) on December 14 in Hefei of Central China's Anhui Province.

Building on a laboratory originally founded by HFIPS and MUST in 2022, the new agreement upgrades the collaboration into a three-party international platform, combining complementary strengths in space instrument engineering, planetary science, and advanced spectroscopic technologies.

Lab-DeepSpec will focus on developing cutting-edge spectroscopic tools for the exploration of the surface and atmosphere of Mars, the Moon, and other celestial bodies. Key research areas include the development of high-sensitivity, high-resolution spectroscopic instrumentation, precise measurement of planetary surface and atmospheric compositions, and the integration of artificial intelligence for advanced data analysis.

A primary focus for the new laboratory is the development of a laser heterodyne spectrometer (LHS) payload for China's Tianwen-3 mission. CUHK will lead the overall coordination of the payload, MUST will oversee the scientific framework, and HFIPS will be responsible for its manufacturing and assembly.

The LHS payload is designed to deliver high-precision, vertically resolved measurements of Martian water vapor, its isotopes, and global wind fields at altitudes ranging from 10 to 100 kilometers. The data collected are anticipated to enhance our understanding of Mars' atmospheric circulation, climate evolution, and water loss mechanisms. This work will provide critical scientific support for China's deep space exploration program.

Through fostering international collaboration and driving innovation, Lab-DeepSpec aims to become a leading global hub for deep space exploration research.

Signing ceremony for the Joint Laboratory for Spectroscopic Detection of Matter Composition in Deep Space (Image by HFIPS)

Automatic sample transfer on a simulated experimental platform at HFIPS (Image by XU Minhao)

A researcher conducting sample experiments on a simulated experimental platform at the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (Image by XU Minhao)