Jovian Moon Sampler

Details Jovian Moon Sampler Jovian Moon Sampler

Jan 2001

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2001iaop.work...21c&link_type=abstract

Forum on Innovative Approaches to Outer Planetary Exploration 2001-2020, p. 21

Other

Flyby Missions, Samplers, Sample Return Missions, Satellite Surfaces, Jupiter Satellites, Ganymede, Europa, Surface Layers, Accumulators, Space Exploration

Scientific paper

Recently, a lot of interest has been focused on Europa and Ganymede due the evidence of subsurface water oceans. Unique methods of exploring the Jovian moons have been developed that allow sampling of the lunar surfaces. These methods include low cost concepts to collect a surface sampled return it to Earth using concepts similar to the Stardust Discovery mission. The spacecraft can be placed on a ballistic trajectory that will carry it close to the surface of the moons of Jupiter. High resolution imaging of the surface can be collected during the approach phase. Small projectiles can be released and used to kick up a plume of surface material. Unique collectors can capture material from this plume as the spacecraft flies over the surface and through the plume of small particles. The spacecraft is protected from damage by shields. This material can then be retracted into a small Sample Return Capsule, SRC, similar to the Stardust capsule. Aerogel and other absorbant materials are used as the collecting medium. A ballistic return to Earth allows for tracking and capture of the capsule at Earth and return to the Utah Test and Training range. Small hard-landing capsules can be dropped to the surface of the moons during the low flyby by using a retrorocket to slow the capsules. These small landers can also collect critical data on the surface composition and relay it to the flyby spacecraft.

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