In order to more accurately predict loads subjected to the EEV (Earth Entry Vehicle) upon impact with a variety of materials, finite element simulations of soil/EEV impact were created using the program LS-DYNA. Various modeling techniques were analyzed for accuracy through comparison with physical test data when available. Through variation of numerical methods, mesh density, and material definition, an accurate and numerically efficient representation of physical data has been created. The numerical methods, Lagrangian, arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE), and spherical particle hydrodynamics (SPH) are compared to determine their relative accuracy in modeling soil deformation and EEV acceleration. Experimentally validated soil material parameters and element formulations were then used in parametric studies to gain a perspective on effects of EEV mass and geometry on its maximum acceleration across varying soil moisture content. Additionally, the effects of EEV orientation, velocity, and impact material were explored. Multi-material arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (MMALE) formulation possess the most effective compromise between its ability to: accurately display qualitative soil behavior, accurately recreate empirical test data, be easily utilized in parametric studies, and to maintain simulation stability. EEV acceleration can be minimized through increase of EEV mass (with constant geometry), allowing for maximum penetration depth, and longest deceleration time. A critical orientation was discovered at 30⁰ from normal, such that maximum EEV surface area impacts the soil surface instantaneously, resulting in maximum acceleration. Off-nominal impact with concrete is predicted to increase acceleration by up to 630% from impact with soil. / MS

abstract: The search for life on Mars is a major NASA priority. A Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission, Mars 2020, will be NASA's next step towards this goal, carrying an instrument suite that can identify samples containing potential biosignatures. Those samples will be later returned to Earth for detailed analysis. This dissertation is intended to inform strategies for fossil biosignature detection in Mars analog samples targeted for their high biosignature preservation potential (BPP) using in situ rover-based instruments. In chapter 2, I assessed the diagenesis and BPP of one relevant analog habitable Martian environment: a playa evaporite sequence within the Verde Formation, Arizona. Coupling outcrop-scale observations with laboratory analyses, results revealed four diagenetic pathways, each with distinct impacts on BPP. When MSR occurs, the sample mass returned will be restricted, highlighting the importance of developing instruments that can select the most promising samples for MSR. Raman spectroscopy is one favored technique for this purpose. Three Raman instruments will be sent onboard two upcoming Mars rover missions for the first time. In chapters 3-4, I investigated the challenges of Raman to identify samples for MSR. I examined two Raman systems, each optimized in a different way to mitigate a major problem commonly suffered by Raman instruments: background fluorescence. In Chapter 3, I focused on visible laser excitation wavelength (532 nm) gated (or time-resolved Raman, TRR) spectroscopy. Results showed occasional improvement over conventional Raman for mitigating fluorescence in samples. It was hypothesized that results were wavelength-dependent and that greater fluorescence reduction was possible with UV laser excitation. In Chapter 4, I tested this hypothesis with a time-resolved UV (266 nm) gated Raman and UV fluorescence spectroscopy capability. I acquired Raman and fluorescence data sets on samples and showed that the UV system enabled identifications of minerals and biosignatures in samples with high confidence. The results obtained in this dissertation may inform approaches for MSR by: (1) refining models for biosignature preservation in habitable Mars environments; (2) improving sample selection and caching strategies, which may increase the success of Earth-based biogenicity studies; and (3) informing the development of Raman instruments for upcoming rover-based missions. / Dissertation/Thesis / Doctoral Dissertation Geological Sciences 2016