Welcome to the new version of CaltechAUTHORS. Login is currently restricted to library staff. If you notice any issues, please email coda@library.caltech.edu
Published March 2006 | public
Journal Article

On possible release of microbe-containing particulates from a Mars lander spacecraft

Abstract

Due to possible planet contamination, before Earth-departure, Mars landers and/or rovers are subject to strict requirements on the maximum number of attached spores or particles that carry viable microbes. Estimates of the release rates of these particles on Mars are made considering the three mechanisms of wind shear, collision with suspended dust, and collision with saltating sand particles. The first mechanism is found to apply only to particles of size greater than 10μm, the second mechanism has a characteristic particle adhesion half life that is so long as to be of no concern, and the third mechanism is deemed of possible importance, vitally depending on attached particle size and detailed surface characteristics of sand and spacecraft. While not investigated in detail, dust devils are shown to be possible contributors to release of microbe-containing particles.

Additional Information

© 2006 Elsevier Ltd. Received 23 August 2005, Revised 7 December 2005, Accepted 9 December 2005, Available online 30 January 2006. This study was conducted at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, sponsored by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Mars Technology Program. Mrs. Elly Ponce is thanked for the drawing of Fig. 1. Dr. Jack Barengoltz and Dr. Jason Kastner are thanked for their careful reading of the manuscript.

Additional details

Created:
August 22, 2023
Modified:
October 17, 2023