Re: LIBS
"Techniques such as LIBS (laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) have been discussed at planetary conferences for a while and are, indeed, likely to appear in future missions. The ability to do stand-off examination of rocks and soils is excellent for a typical surface rover or Lander."
I usually go bug the LIBS folks during the poster sessions at LPSC to see how their implementations are comming along. I used to want to be a laser geek untill I saw the toll it takes on some people. ;)
R.L. They've been working on LIBS at UH-Manoa for quite some time now. You should go visit them if you make it over there...