Radiation and Dust Sensor for Mars Environmental Dynamic Analyzer Onboard M2020 Rover

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science
• Atmospheric Science
• Instrument Development

Background:

• The Mars 2020 mission includes the Perseverance rover, equipped with the Mars Environmental Dynamics Analyzer (MEDA).
• Understanding Martian atmospheric dust is crucial for mission operations and climate studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the design, qualification, calibration, and validation of the Radiation and Dust Sensor (RADS).
• To characterize airborne dust in the Martian atmosphere, including concentration, shape, and optical properties.
• To study dust-lifting processes and analyze the solar spectrum on the Martian surface.

Main Methods:

• Sensor design based on scientific and technical requirements.
• Rigorous qualification processes to ensure endurance on the Martian surface.
• Calibration and validation campaigns using a Mars analog environment.

Main Results:

• Development of a compact, fully digital sensor with a mass under 1 kg.
• Exceptional performance in terms of power consumption and data handling.
• Demonstrated capability to characterize Martian dust and solar spectrum.

Conclusions:

• The Radiation and Dust Sensor is a highly capable instrument for analyzing Martian atmospheric dust.
• The sensor's design and performance meet the demanding requirements for Mars exploration.
• Successful validation paves the way for in-situ dust characterization by the Perseverance rover.