Physics – Plasma Physics
Scientific paper
Dec 2010
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2010jgra..11512313s&link_type=abstract
Journal of Geophysical Research, Volume 115, Issue A12, CiteID A12313
Physics
Plasma Physics
2
Planetary Sciences: Comets And Small Bodies: Instruments And Techniques, Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects: Instruments And Techniques, Space Plasma Physics: Spacecraft/Atmosphere Interactions
Scientific paper
In situ mass spectrometry has been a powerful tool in many space missions to investigate atmospheres and exospheres of different bodies in the solar system. Applying new technologies, the mass spectrometers have become increasingly more sensitive. In this study, we show that spacecraft outgassing, which can never be completely prevented, will be the limiting factor in future missions that investigate very tenuous atmospheres and exospheres of moons, asteroids, or comets at large heliocentric distances. The Rosetta Orbiter Spectrometer for Ion and Neutral Analysis (ROSINA) instrument on the European Space Agency Rosetta mission has monitored spacecraft outgassing for 6 years during the cruise phase with unprecedented instrument sensitivity. It is shown that diffusion of gas from materials and from the spacecraft interior plays an important role in maintaining a relatively permanent thin gas cloud around the spacecraft for many years. The density and composition of this gas cloud depends on location on the spacecraft, maneuvers, and payload activity. The main contaminants are water, which is adsorbed on cold surfaces, and organics from the spacecraft structure, electronics, and insulations. Decomposed lubricant material can give a significant contribution to the total background. Fortunately for Rosetta, outgassing of the spacecraft will play a minor role when the comet is close to perihelion; only in the early phase of the mission the outgassing may be larger than the cometary signature.
Altwegg Kathrin
Balsiger Hans
Berthelier Jean-Jacques
de Keyser Johan
Fiethe Björn
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