Investigation of dust grains by optical tweezers for space applications

TL;DR

This paper explores the use of optical tweezers to manipulate and analyze cosmic dust particles, revealing their mechanical responses and compositions, with implications for space research and sample handling.

Contribution

It demonstrates the application of optical tweezers and T-matrix formalism to characterize cosmic dust particles' mechanical and compositional properties.

Findings

Optical forces depend on dust composition and morphology.

Optical tweezers can accurately trap and analyze cosmic dust.

Potential for space applications in sample return and extraterrestrial environments.

Abstract

Cosmic dust plays a dominant role in the universe, especially in the formation of stars and planetary systems. Furthermore, the surface of cosmic dust grains is the bench-work where molecular hydrogen and simple organic compounds are formed. We manipulate individual dust particles in water solution by contactless and non-invasive techniques such as standard and Raman tweezers, to characterize their response to mechanical effects of light (optical forces and torques) and to determine their mineral compositions. Moreover, we show accurate optical force calculations in the T-matrix formalism highlighting the key role of composition and complex morphology in optical trapping of cosmic dust particles.This opens perspectives for future applications of optical tweezers in curation facilities for sample return missions or in extraterrestrial environments.