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Space-flight lasers are subjected to a harsh space environment that affects their performances and lifetimes. Contamination and induced nonlinear optical effects are the most worrisome factors that frequently contribute to laser failure in space. In this paper, we present a descriptive physical model that explains the cause of surface damage of optical components due to contamination, nonlinear phenomena, and the role of microgravity and the optical forces in the process. Experimental results are presented and discussed. An adsorption technique to minimize the presence of contaminants is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a summary of the findings of the Organic Contamination Panel (OCP) of the U.S. National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA) regarding the organic contamination of Martian samples and implications for the Mars 2020 Rover mission. Topics discussed include strategy for implementing contaminant requirements, analytical approaches used for measuring particulates on Earth, and detection and characterization at the molecular level of indigenous organic compounds.