The bipolar charge plasma spectrometer (BCPS) based on the 2π-field-of-view double-channel electrostatic analyzer.

Area of Science:

• Space Physics
• Plasma Physics
• Spectrometry

Background:

• Simultaneous measurement of thermal ions and electrons is crucial for understanding space plasma dynamics.
• Existing instruments often have limitations in field-of-view or dynamic range for comprehensive analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel bipolar charge plasma spectrometer.
• To enable simultaneous measurement of thermal ion and electron velocity distributions.
• To achieve a wide dynamic flux range for space plasma studies.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a double-channel electrostatic analyzer design.
• Employing microchannel plates for ion and electron detection.
• Implementing electrostatic deflectors and a cylindrically symmetric structure for a 2π field-of-view.

Main Results:

• Achieved simultaneous measurement of ion and electron velocity distributions over a 360° x 90° field-of-view.
• Demonstrated a broad energy detection range (ions: 33.3-44.4 keV, electrons: 29.1-38.8 keV).
• Verified high energy resolutions (ions: 9.6%, electrons: 6.1%) and a wide dynamic flux range via on-ground calibration.

Conclusions:

• The developed spectrometer effectively measures thermal ions and electrons simultaneously.
• Its wide field-of-view and dynamic range meet the demands of solar wind and magnetosphere plasma research.
• This instrument represents a significant advancement in space plasma measurement capabilities.