Abstract
The HADES Europa mission concept aims to provide a framework for an astrobiological in-depth investigation of the Jupiter moon Europa, relying on existing technologies and feasibility. This mission study proposes a system consisting of an orbiter, lander and cryobot as a platform for detailed exploration of Europa. While the orbiter will investigate the presence of a liquid ocean and characterize Europa's internal structure, the lander will survey local dynamics of the ice layer and the surface environment. The lander releases a cryobot, that melts into the ice, will sample the pristine subsurface and is expected to provide data on organic and gaseous content and putative bio-signatures. In summary, we present the scientific objectives for an astrobiological investigation of Europa, resulting in a mission concept with a detailed evaluation of scientific instrumentation, mission sequences, basic design of the spacecraft, technology needs and cost estimations.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 321-329 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | International Journal of Astrobiology |
Volume | 8 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Oct 2009 |
Keywords
- mission concept
- astrobiology
- Europa
- SUBSURFACE OCEAN
- BEPICOLOMBO
- MERCURY
- LENTICULAE
- ORIGIN
- SHELL
- LIFE