Ion mobility spectrometry in space exploration

Ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) has proven to be an effective tool for chemical detection and identification. Ion mobility spectrometers can be manufactured in small, rugged and portable designs and have been used in several mission critical circumstances from security screening and military preparedness. Perhaps most visible are the IMS analyzers that have been deployed in airports around the world to detect traces of explosives on passenger carry-on luggage. Intrinsic properties of ion mobility spectrometers make these analyzers suitable for both manned and robotic space exploration. In this review, we will discuss the utility, previous use and future use of ion mobility spectrometers in space environments.