Abstract
In-situ planetary missions to astrobiologically relevant icy worlds which have unique access to subsurface samples for habitability analyses would typically require complex and costly soft lander platforms with a high size, weight and power. This work discusses the design and implementation of IMPOA, a first-of-its-kind, <tex>$\varnothing 63.5\ \text{mm}$</tex> diameter × 45 mm length science payload platform with expandable canister design targeting state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation. The IMPOA platform can enable detection of low concentration organic species and is capable of sustaining high g-loads during crustal penetration which would enable subsurface sampling. Three prototypes were modeled using COMSOL Multiphysics and then impact tested with 12k-g, 25k-g, and 50k-g decelerations respectively. Material and structural design changes were made following each test to optimize the survivability of various electronic and optical components installed in the payload during high velocity impact. All components survived the impact tests, with the exception of a glass substrate representing a glass microfluidic device. The third impact test x-ray results showed that a cap window on the commercial off the shelf laser diode was displaced and shattered, but otherwise no deterioration of the diode's output or shift in wavelength was detectable. All components and material used in the payload platform design are commercially available at the time of publication, simplifying technology transfer for further TRL elevation. Impact-resistance, miniaturization, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness are pivotal for high acceleration space-flight missions. This work satisfies these key aspects and opens a path forward for new low-size, weight, and power astrobiologically relevant space science instrumentation.
Published Version
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