A report presents a concept for an instrument to be flown in outer space, where it would detect dust particles — especially those associated with comets. The instrument would include a flat plate that would intercept the dust particles. The anticipated spacecraft/dust-particle relative speeds are so high that the impingement of a dust particle on the plate would generate a plasma cloud. Simple electric dipole sensors located equidistantly along the circumference of the plate would detect the dust particle indirectly by detecting the plasma cloud. The location of the dust hit could be estimated from the timing of the detection pulses of the different dipoles. The mass and composition of the dust particle could be estimated from the shapes and durations of the pulses from the dipoles. In comparison with other instruments for detecting hypervelocity dust particles, the proposed instrument offers advantages of robustness, large collection area, and simplicity.
This work was done by Bruce Tsurutani, David E. Brinza, and Michael D. Henry of Caltech; Liwei Dennis Zhang of Columbus Technologies and Services Inc.; and Douglas R. Clay of Skillstorm, Inc. for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Physical Sciences category. NPO-30848
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Plasma-Based Detector of Outer-Space Dust Particles
(reference NPO-30848) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document outlines NASA's development of a Plasma-Based Detector of Outer-Space Dust Particles, as detailed in Technical Support Package NPO-30848. This innovative technology emerged from the need to address the challenges posed by dust impacts on spacecraft, particularly highlighted during the DS1 spacecraft's encounter with comet Borrelly. The analysis of dust impacts revealed the potential for a new type of detector that utilizes plasma clouds formed upon dust collisions with a solid surface.
The proposed detector boasts several advantages, including a large geometric factor, simplicity in design and construction, and low cost. It is designed to enhance the detection of dust particles in outer space, which is crucial for understanding the environment in which spacecraft operate and for protecting them from potential damage caused by dust impacts.
The document indicates that the technology is still at the conceptual stage, with no prototypes developed or finalized inventions. It is classified as a semiconductor chip product, although it is not yet in its final form. The intended applications for this technology primarily lie within space science instrumentation, which could significantly improve the capabilities of future space missions.
The report also notes that the technology has not yet been published or presented at conferences, nor has it been disclosed to external parties under a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). However, there are plans for future public disclosures regarding this technology.
In terms of commercialization, the document emphasizes the potential for this innovation to find applications in various markets, particularly in space science. The development costs are estimated to be minimal, with no additional funding anticipated at this stage.
Overall, the Plasma-Based Detector represents a significant advancement in the field of space technology, aiming to improve the detection and analysis of dust particles in outer space. This innovation not only addresses a critical issue faced by spacecraft but also opens up new avenues for research and exploration in the cosmos. The document serves as a foundational report for further development and potential commercialization of this promising technology.
