Imagine trying to keep a camera lens clean in a place where dust acts like a powerful magnet, sticking to everything and scratching surfaces. This work creates a smart sensor that acts like a vacuum for space dust, measuring how particles move and charge. It helps us figure out how to push that dust away using electricity so machines and astronauts stay safe.
Charged dust on the Moon and asteroids degrades equipment, causes seal failures, and poses toxic inhalation risks to astronauts. There is a lack of precise data on how this dust moves and how to remove it effectively.
A compact multi-sensor instrument containing a dust sensor, a Langmuir probe, and an E-field probe. A laboratory test setup was also created to simulate the space environment.
If you are a manufacturer dealing with equipment wear caused by abrasive lunar or asteroid dust — this project developed a multi-sensor instrument that measures dust charge and velocity. This allows for the design of electrostatic shields that prevent dust from coating sensitive optics and seals.
If you are a developer dealing with the health risks of dust inhalation for astronauts — this project developed a way to move charged dust particles in a controlled way. This technology can be used to create dust-free zones around habitats and airlocks.
If you are a sensor developer dealing with the need for in situ planetary analysis — this project developed a compact instrument combining a dust sensor, Langmuir probe, and E-field probe. This provides a validated blueprint for high-precision environmental monitoring in airless bodies.
Based on available project data, the specific cost or price of the instrument is not disclosed.
The project focuses on airless bodies and planetary exploration. Based on available project data, industrial scaling for Earth-based environments is not mentioned.
Based on available project data, there is no information regarding patents or licensing agreements.
The project period ends on 2025-06-30, with the goal to propose the instrument for a future lunar mission after completion.
The project developed a compact multi-sensor instrument designed for in situ analysis, though specific integration protocols are not detailed in the summary.
The consortium is research-heavy, consisting of 4 partners from 3 countries (BE, ES, FR). With 3 research organizations and only 1 industry partner, the industry ratio is 25%, indicating the project is primarily focused on technology validation and scientific discovery rather than immediate commercial production.
Contact the Institut Royal d'Aéronomie Spatiale de Belgique
Contact SciTransfer to explore licensing opportunities for electrostatic dust mitigation.
