Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
Sep 1999
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1999smtp.conf...79m&link_type=abstract
Studies of Mineralogical and Textural Properties of Martian Soil: An Exobiological Perspective, p. 79
Mathematics
Logic
Mars Atmosphere, Simulation, Space Suits, Visors, Wind Tunnels, Mars (Planet), Dust, Dust Storms, Sands, Wind Effects, Durability, Electrical Resistivity, Helmets, Coveralls, Safety Devices, Fabrics
Scientific paper
Experiments in the Mars Wind Tunnel at NASA Ames Research Center show that under Mars conditions, spacesuit materials are highly susceptible to dust contamination when exposed to windblown soil. This effect was suspected from knowledge of the interaction of electrostatically adhesive dust with solid surfaces in general. However, it is important to evaluate the respective roles of materials, meteorological and radiation effects, and the character of the soil. The tunnel permits evaluation of dust contamination and sand abrasion of space suits by simulating both pressure and wind conditions on Mars. The long-term function of space suits on Mars will be primarily threatened by dust contamination. Lunar EVA activities caused heavy contamination of space suits, but the problem was never seriously manifest because of the brief utilization of the suits, and the suits were never reused. Electrostatically adhering dust grains have various detrimental effects: (1) penetration and subsequent wear of suit fabrics, (2) viewing obscuration through visors and scratching/pitting of visor surfaces, (3) penetration, wear, and subsequent seizing-up of mechanical suit joints, (4) changes in albedo and therefore of radiation properties of external heat-exchanger systems, (5) changes in electrical conductivity of suit surfaces which may affect tribocharging of suits and create spurious discharge effects detrimental to suit electronics/radio systems. Additional information is contained in the original.
Bratton Clayton
Kosmo J. J.
Marshall James J.
Treviño Rodrigo
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