Microfluidic Chemical Analyzer for the Planned Europa Flyby Mission or a Potential Europa Lander
Project Description
The objective of this effort is to advance the TRL of spaceflight instrumentation capable of handling liquids and performing microscale organic chemical analysis on spaceflight missions to Europa.
We have developed to microfluidic systems to perform liquid-based analyses. The Chemical Laptop is a system for in situ organic analysis on extraterrestrial destinations with ultra-high sensitivity in a compact, low-mass, and low-power package. We have also developed a microfluidic flow injection analysis (µFIA) system combined with ion selective electrodes (ISE) within a miniaturized microfluidic manifold to pre-analyze the liquid extracts to determine their ionic composition.
More »Anticipated Benefits
This technology will allow liquid-based analysis for detection of organic and inorganic species. This instrumentation is relevant to future missions to Europa, Enceladus and other ocean worlds seeking signs of life.
Modified versions of this technology could be used by NOAA for chemical oceanography.
More »Project Library
Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) | Lead Organization | FFRDC/UARC | Pasadena, California |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
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California
