CORALS: Characterization of Ocean Realms and Life Signatures
Abstract
The high albedo, low bulk density, and limited crater count on Europa indicate a geologically active world. Compositional models, surface morphologies, magnetic field perturbations, and transient plumes of water vapor implicate a global subsurface ocean that may be in contact with a silicate mantle. Such a critical interface could support: i) heat transfer from the deep interior to the ocean and surface; ii) fluid-mediated/catalyzed chemical exchange; and iii) the concentration of energy sources to facilitate biological activity. Consequently, Europa represents one of the most compelling targets in the search for life beyond Earth.
The CORALS investigation promises to redefine our understanding of Europa as a potentially habitable world by integrating three cutting-edge subsystems: 1) a solid-state UV laser offering exceptional output energy (450 μJ at 266 nm), continuously variable attenuation, and a MEMS steering mirror; 2) the CosmOrbitrap mass analyzer, adept at discriminating spectral peaks with ultrahigh mass resolution (m/Δm ≥ 100,000, FWHM at mass 100 Da) and accuracy (≤ 3 ppm); and, 3) a custom ion inlet that enables ions to be accelerated and focused into the mass analyzer under ambient Europa pressures. Together, these highly advanced components comprise a 7.5 kg, 40 W instrument capable of: Chemical imaging of ocean residues, salt deposits, and radiolytic products via laser microprocessing and active beam scanning, circumventing the need for sample motion; Measurements of trace levels (≤1 pmol/mm2) of organic compounds, molecular fragments, and inorganic mineralogical indicators; High-precision (≤1.0%, 2σ) determinations of abundance patterns and isotopic ratios; and, Unrivaled disambiguation of isobaric interferences and isotopologues. Here, we describe progress in the testing of an operational prototype system, and the development of a high-fidelity engineering test unit that will: define the form, fit, and function of the flight model; deliver full science performance; and, survive random vibration and dry heat microbial reduction. The engineering unit will comply with the mechanical, electrical, and thermal interfaces of the evolving lander design, and operate within the limited resources available to the mission payload.- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2019
- Bibcode:
- 2019AGUFM.P34C..04A
- Keywords:
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- 6094 Instruments and techniques;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: COMETS AND SMALL BODIES;
- 5794 Instruments and techniques;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: FLUID PLANETS;
- 6297 Instruments and techniques;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: SOLAR SYSTEM OBJECTS;
- 5494 Instruments and techniques;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: SOLID SURFACE PLANETS