Early Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Development of the Microfluidic Inorganic Conductivity Detector for Europa and the Solenoid-Based Actuator Assembly for Impact Penetrators
2024; Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute; Volume: 24; Issue: 23 Linguagem: Inglês
10.3390/s24237704
ISSN1424-8220
AutoresChinmayee Govinda Raj, Mohamed Odeh, Cambrie Salyards, Amanda M. Stockton,
Tópico(s)Nuclear Physics and Applications
ResumoThis study introduces an innovative in situ lander/impact-penetrator design tailored for Discovery-class missions to Europa, specifically focused on conducting astrobiological analyses. The platform integrates a microfluidic capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detector (C4D), optimized for the detection of low-concentration salts potentially indicative of biological activity. Our microfluidic system allows for automated sample routing and precise conductivity-based detection, making it suitable for the harsh environmental and logistical demands of Europa's icy surface. This technology provides a robust toolset for exploring extraterrestrial habitability by enabling in situ chemical analyses with minimal operational intervention, paving the way for advanced astrobiological investigations on Europa.
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