You are here

  1. Home
  2. Science
  3. In situ Measurements

In situ Measurements

67P MapImage courtesy of ESA/ Rosetta/ MPS for OSIRIS Team MPS/ UPD/ LAM/ IAA/ SSO/ INTA/ UPM/ DASP/ IDA

 

An extensive payload is proposed for MarcoPolo-M5.  This is required to gather information to:

  • Permit safe close proximity operations (i.e. sampling)
  • Identify highest science value potential sampling and landing sites
  • Provide geological context for the sample
  • Undertake fundamental research about the physical and chemical nature of the asteroid.

Mapping at various wavelengths from visible through to mid infra-red will required, with a range of spatial resolution down to less than a cm.  Chemical analysis of evolved species and chemical variation on the surface with a focus on more volatile components will be performed.  The internal structure will be investigated by a number of experiments, including various radar instruments as well as shape and mass characterisation.  Regolith properties and structure will also be explored, aided by a small deployable lander, in order to provide additional understanding to the ground truth for remote spectral observation.

Register your support

If you would like to register your support for the MarcoPolo-M5 mission please go to our registration form page:

Register here

This will generate an e-mail to Ian Franchi, who will add you to the list of supporters and mailing list.