Analysis of lunar dust effects on physical and biological model systems
Abstract
One of important problems in the study and exploration of space is the effect of lunar dust on the optical and mechanical systems of the spacecraft, as well as on biological objects that are present on their surfaces, and interacting with the lunar dust. This work presents the experimental simulations of the lunar exosphere influence on the working surface of the scientific device designed to detect the levitating dust particles. Along with lunar dust and mechanical systems interactions we have investigated the influence of the Moon’s exosphere on terrestrial microorganisms which can be absorbed on the surface of device, and interact with the lunar dust particles. In this topic also the data will be presented concerning the influence of high vacuum on the viability, physiological and cyto-morphological characteristics of bacteria immobilized on the mineral matrix (granulometric simulation of lunar dust). This work allow to assess the impact of the lunar exosphere on hardware which will be landed on the surface of the moon, their technical potential, and also to make preliminary estimates of the duration of maintaining the viability by terrestrial microorganisms when interacting with the lunar dust. Such data are important for designing spacecraft, planetary protection solutions and creation of populated stations on the Moon. This work is in progress with the support of RFBR grant 13-02-90441.
- Publication:
-
40th COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- 2014
- Bibcode:
- 2014cosp...40E2998S