Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM)

Overview

Curiosity's onboard chemistry laboratory, which detected organic molecules and methane on Mars.

Spacecraft

Scientific instruments

• ChemCamElemental composition of rocks via laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
• Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM)Organic molecules and atmospheric and isotopic composition

Knowledge connections

• Instrument onCuriosity
• Member of groupMass Spectrometer

Sources

The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.

• NASA JPLJet Propulsion Laboratory / Solar System Dynamics

  Orbital data, ephemerides, and small-body parameters for planets, asteroids, and comets.