A scattering spectroscopy nanosensor includes a nanoscale-patterned sensing substrate to produce an optical scattering response signal indicative of a presence of an analyte when interrogated by an optical stimulus. The scattering spectroscopy nanosensor further includes a protective covering to cover and protect the nanoscale-patterned sensing substrate. The protective covering is to be selectably removed by exposure to an optical beam incident on the protective covering. The protective covering is to prevent the analyte from interacting with the nanoscale-patterned sensing substrate prior to being removed.