Fluffy Layer Ultra-low-Force Soil Compression ANalyser (FLUFSCAN)

Cislune Inc., along with Dr. Fontes from Westmont College and Dr. Phil Metzger from the University of Central Florida, propose the Fluffy Layer Ultra-low-Force Soil Compression Analyzer (FLUFSCAN). This innovation addresses crucial gaps in understanding and mitigating plume-surface interactions (PSI) during lunar and planetary landings, aiming to significantly enhance mission safety and reliability. Leveraging a novel combination of ground-based laser instrumentation and penetrometry, FLUFSCAN measures the compaction and cohesion of lunar soil, enabling precise modeling of regolith erosion. Phase I funding will be utilized for experimental characterization of regolith compaction and erosion, development and prototyping of PSI-specific flight instrumentation, and calibration of numerical models to predict PSI effects. The target market includes NASA, commercial space companies, and international space agencies, with potential commercialization through mission integration and technology licensing. This proposal integrates advanced computational modeling, empirical data analysis, and innovative instrumentation design to provide a comprehensive solution for PSI challenges, setting a foundation for safer lunar and planetary explorations.

FLUFSCAN leverages a novel penetrometry technique and laser instrumentation to measure lunar soil compaction and cohesion, crucial for modeling regolith erosion caused by lander plumes. This technology will significantly enhance the prediction accuracy of regolith displacement, supporting NASA's mission directives by ensuring safer and more reliable lunar and planetary explorations. The Phase I endeavor focuses on experimental characterization of regolith compaction and erosion, the development of PSI-specific flight instrumentation, and the calibration of computational models to simulate PSI effects accurately. Targeting the integration of this technology into NASA missions, FLUFSCAN addresses the urgent need for sophisticated PSI mitigation strategies, potentially revolutionizing mission planning, safety, and the establishment of habitable lunar bases. FLUFSCAN offers a pivotal advancement in plume-surface interaction (PSI) mitigation for lunar and planetary missions. By integrating novel laser-based penetrometry and instrumentation, this technology quantitatively assesses lunar soil compaction and cohesion, crucial for modeling regolith erosion accurately. Its application spans enhancing mission safety, facilitating accurate PSI effect predictions, and refining lander design and operation protocols. Beyond NASA's missions, FLUFSCAN's commercialization potential extends to commercial space companies and international space agencies engaged in lunar exploration, aiming to ensure lander safety and surface integrity. The innovation's broader implications include advancing regolith interaction understanding, supporting sustainable extraterrestrial infrastructure development, and promoting safer, more efficient lunar landings.

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