The DSLP Langmuir Probe experiment on-board Proba 2: first in-flight operations and future outlook
Abstract
Dual Segmented Langmuir Probe (DSLP) instrument is part of the Plasma Measurements Equipment on board the European Space Agency's mini-satellite Proba 2, that was successfully launched on 2nd November 2009. Proba 2 has LEO Sun-synchronous orbit at the altitude of 700 km and orbits with mean solar local time of 6:00 at ascending node. Hence Proba 2 can monitor the Sun and simultaneously measure in-situ plasma properties in higher ionosphere. The DSLP instrument aims to test and verify a novel Langmuir probe design based on a segmented spherical sensor originally used on the experiment ISL (French satellite Demeter). It can provide electron density and temperature values, in burst mode also with a directional dependence. We present results from DSLP measurements after one year of operation, its overall performance and data analysis. Furthermore short outlook for future usage of similar instrument in missions such as EJSM (Europa Jupiter System Mission) is given.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2010
- Bibcode:
- 2010AGUFM.P33C1585P
- Keywords:
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- 6297 PLANETARY SCIENCES: SOLAR SYSTEM OBJECTS / Instruments and techniques