A concept for analysis of cometary dust by light scattering experiments on future cometary probes.
Abstract
Analysis of cometary dust by optical scattering experiments can play an important part during future exploration of comets by space probes. Contrary to earth-based photopolarimetric measurements, a cometary probe will provide a greater variety of observable scattering angles and, in addition, the possibility of measuring light scattered by single cometary dust grains passing appropriate equipment. The paper deals with a concept for an experimental approach to obtain such measurements. The discussion focuses on light scattering by single particles, design of the instrument, and probability of events. The instrument envisioned consists of a light source which illuminates single dust particles entering a small section of a concentrated beam (scattering volume). The radiation scattered by the grains is detected by sensors placed at appropriate scattering angles. An arrangement of the sensors to provide most useful information is shown schematically and described. The whole instrument may be accommodated in a spacecraft with some apertures which allow the dust grains to enter the scattering volume.
- Publication:
-
Space Research XIX
- Pub Date:
- 1979
- Bibcode:
- 1979spre.conf..475G
- Keywords:
-
- Comets;
- Interplanetary Dust;
- Light Scattering;
- Space Probes;
- Spaceborne Experiments;
- Dust Collectors;
- Photons;
- Polarimetry;
- Astrophysics;
- Comets:Space Missions