  In the present work, NIR, LIBS, Raman and XRD techniques have been
complementarily used to carry out a comprehensive characterization of a
terrestrial analogue selected from the Chesapeake Bay Impact Structure (CBIS).
The obtained data clearly highlight the key role of Raman spectroscopy in the
detection of minor and trace compounds, through which inferences about
geological processes occurred in the CBIS can be extrapolated. Beside the use
of commercial systems, further Raman analyses were performed by the Raman Laser
Spectrometer (RLS) ExoMars Simulator. This instrument represents the most
reliable tool to effectively predict the scientific capabilities of the
ExoMars/Raman system that will be deployed on Mars in 2021. By emulating the
analytical procedures and operational restrictions established by the ExoMars
mission rover design, it was proved that the RLS ExoMars Simulator is able to
detect the amorphization of quartz, which constitutes an analytical clue of the
impact origin of craters. On the other hand, the detection of barite and
siderite, compounds crystallizing under hydrothermal conditions, helps to
indirectly confirm the presence of water in impact targets. Furthermore, the
RLS ExoMars Simulator capability of performing smart molecular mappings was
also evaluated. According to the obtained results, the algorithms developed for
its operation provide a great analytical advantage over most of the automatic
analysis systems employed by commercial Raman instruments, encouraging its
application for many additional scientific and commercial purposes.
