Future planetary X-ray and gamma-ray remote sensing system and in situ requirements for room temperature solid state detectors

Abstract

X-Ray and gamma-ray remote sensing observations find important applications in the study of the development of the planets. Orbital measurements can be carried out on solar-system bodies whose atmospheres and trapped radiation environments do not interfere significantly with the emissions. Elemental compositions can be inferred from observations of these line emissions. Future planetary missions also will involve landing both stationery and roving probes on planetary surfaces. Both X-ray and gamma-ray spectrometers will be used for performing elemental analysis of surface samples. These future planetary missions will impose a number of constraints: the flight instruments must be significantly reduced in weight from those previously flown; for many missions, gravity assist will be required, greatly increasing mission duration, resulting in the passage of several years before the first scientific measurement of a solar system body. The detector systems must operate reliably after years of cosmic-ray irradiation. Both spectroscopy and imaging detection systems are required. Room temperature systems show great promise for application to planetary X-ray and gamma-ray remote systems. A number of laboratory and sub-orbital, orbital, and planetary flight mission investigations have been and will be carried out in order to develop room temperature solid state detector systems for space flight.