Observational conditions for the detection of X-ray fluorescence from sodium by the MIXS instrument on BepiColumbo
Abstract
We model the expected fluorescence from the exosphere and surface of Mercury, as observed by the Mercury Imaging X-ray Spectrometer (MIXS) on the upcoming BepiColumbo mission, using code modified from that used for the SMART-1 D-CIXS instrument to the Moon. Modifications include detector parameters, solar proximity, surface elemental composition, and emission from the optically thin exosphere. From this, preferential observation parameters have been determined for MIXS during its orbit. Modelling of these observations is conducted, with particular emphasis on the sodium component.
- Publication:
-
European Planetary Science Congress
- Pub Date:
- September 2017
- Bibcode:
- 2017EPSC...11..458C