Ultraviolet spectrometer
This activity was approved by the Aurora Board of Participants within the Work Plan 2005-2006 and should be initiated by the end of 2005.
The ExoMars mission will be the next European mission to Mars. It consists of a rover of 100 kg class with a dedicated payload within the range 8-14 kg (to be confirmed) aimed at detecting possible signs of past/present life forms on Mars as well as improving our knowledge of the most hospitable neighbour planet. This payload will bring together of a set of instruments (apart from the drilling system), among which some developments are required in order to be ready for launch. Therefore, a number of technology activities were approved to achieve the suitable level of development.
The UV flux on Mars is considerably higher than on our planet due to the lack of an appreciable ozone layer. Radiation at these wavelengths can be very damaging to exposed life forms, and could be an important factor in the creation and persistence of a highly oxidising surface environment. It is therefore of high interest to characterise (for the first time) the UV spectrum on the Martian surface. A small UV sensor with Beagle II heritage exists. However, the more complete spectrometer necessary for these measurements requires some modifications to be developed for Mars use.
The main objective is to fund the manufacturing of an advanced laboratory prototype able to verify the integrated instrument’s end-to-end functionality. This prototype is intended to become the basis for realising the instrument’s flight version.
The goals of the project will be:
- Definition of final user requirements
- Design and construction of a fully-operational, integrated laboratory breadboard with commercial components
- Laboratory testing and field testing
- Recommendations to further reduce the overall size, weight and power consumption of flight instrument (target mass < 0.3 kg)
- Recommendations to improve robustness, radiation hardness, reliability and ease of assembly
Start |
Expected or actual duration | Status | Prime contractor |
---|---|---|---|
Dec. '05 | 12 months | Ongoing | The Open University |