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To date, there are no direct measurement of Plume Surface Interaction (PSI) induced ejecta particles velocities or kinetic energies on the lunar or Martian surfaces. The PSI Ejecta Kinetic Energy Estimating Radar (PEKEER) will be NASA’s first instrument for PSI ejecta velocity measurements. This capability is critical for successful lunar missions. In a few years, there will be frequent lunar and Martian landings as NASA continuous to explore. This technology’s measurement will ensure future landings will be done safely, as it will provide the PSI science community with the essential measurements to address the significant risks posed by PSI ejecta particles.
The PEKEER project will develop a 94 GHz PSI ejecta kinetic energy estimating radar that will measure, quantify, and characterize PSI effects and will directly inform PSI modelling efforts for Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL) missions. This critical information will be attained by measuring the velocities of high-speed ejecta particles using the Doppler shifted signal scattered from PSI accelerated regolith.
This will work towards closing the STMD shortfalls Entry Modelling and Simulation for EDL Missions (1568; priority ranking #28) and Characterization of Plume Surface Interaction (1566; priority ranking #74) under Technology Area and Entry Descent and Landing. In addition to the STMD shortfall, it will also help close the below ESDMD gaps; 1101 [Priority Ranking #29]: 1101-02: Characterization and mitigation of plume surface interaction on lunar surface, and 0801: Lunar Dust-Tolerant Systems and Dust Mitigation.
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