| Author(s) |
Emma Maria Muscato, Zachary DeFabrizio, Aarnav Gautam, Shannon Gerard, Michael Gold, Nhan Hoang, Lalitha Dabilpuram, Shweta Meshram, Aroba Saleem |
| Abstract Scope |
Through the MMPACT project, NASA’s Artemis initiative aims to advance lunar exploration by using regolith-based materials for construction. Processing of lunar regolith releases volatiles, such as methane, carbon dioxide, helium, and water, which pose risks to both humans and equipment. Therefore, it is critical to detect and identify these volatiles emitted by the lunar regolith. While there are some sensors that can detect volatiles, the uniqueness of the GatorSense is its small size, lightweight, low power requirements, cost-effectiveness, and operation in extra-terrestrial conditions, which is critical for space applications. In this study, a detailed design of prototype, material selection, prototype development, and testing are discussed. This integrated design effectively performs its function without requiring a high-power supply or heavy components. |