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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
Neutron spectra will be simulated to determine the performance requirements to detect and localize a wide variety of minerals in-situ using high energy-resolution neutron spectrometers during future lunar surface missions. Neutron spectroscopy is being increasingly used to determine specific elemental abundances on planetary surfaces to a meter in depth. Understanding the expected neutron spectra of lunar regolith is key for detection and differentiation of water (ice versus hydrated minerals), radiogenic elements, and elemental composition of the regolith. This effort builds upon GRC experience validating neutron spectroscopy methods, as well as in-house expertise in geology and particle physics enhancing analysis capabilities impacting lunar prospecting.
Neutron spectrometers that can analyze the neutron flux based on more than just the typical three energy channels (thermal, epithermal, and fast) require new baseline spectra references for identifying materials. The simulated spectra of this work will be directly applied to these novel designs for the development of a future instrument.
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