Science from the Lander
COSAC (Cometary Sampling and Composition experiment): One of two evolved gas analysers, it detects and identifies complex organic molecules from their elemental and molecular composition.
MODULUS PTOLEMY: Another evolved gas analyser, which obtains accurate measurements of isotopic ratios of light elements.
MUPUS (Multi-Purpose Sensors for Surface and Subsurface Science): Uses sensors on the Lander's anchor, probe and exterior to measure the density, thermal and mechanical properties of the surface.
ROMAP (Rosetta Lander Magnetometer and Plasma Monitor): A magnetometer and plasma monitor study the local magnetic field and the comet/solar-wind interaction.
SESAME (Surface Electrical, Seismic and Acoustic Monitoring Experiments): Three instruments measure properties of the comet's outer layers.The Cometary Acoustic Sounding Surface Experiment measures the way in which sound travels through the surface. The Permittivity Probe investigates its electrical characteristics, and the Dust Impact Monitor measures dust falling back to the surface.
APXS (Alpha X-ray Spectrometer): Lowered to within 4 cm of the ground, it detects alpha particles and X-rays, which provide information on the elemental composition of the comet's surface.
CONSERT (Comet Nucleus Sounding Experiment by Radiowave Transmission): Probes the internal structure of the nucleus. Radio waves from the CONSERT experiment on the Orbiter travel through the nucleus and are returned by a transponder on the Lander.
ÇIVA: Six identical micro-cameras take panoramic pictures of the surface. A spectrometer studies the composition, texture and albedo (reflectivity) of samples collected from the surface.
ROLIS (Rosetta Lander Imaging System): A CCD camera to obtain high-resolution images during descent and stereo panoramic images of areas sampled by other instruments.
SD2 (Sample and Distribution Device): Drills more than 20 cm into the surface, collects samples and delivers them to different ovens or for microscope inspection.
Last update: 12 December 2002
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