Seismic Exploration of Small Bodies

We propose to examine the use of small satellites (cubesats) and a unique micro-seismometer concept developed at the Arizona State University to understand the interior structure of small bodies (asteroids and comets). The basic implementation approach would be to deploy one or more micro-seismometers on the surface of a small body and then impact the body with a projectile as an energy source. This active seismology experiment would provide the seismic velocity of the interior across some number of ray paths and thus resolve the basis question as to whether asteroids are rubble piles or have solid interiors with a fragmental surface layer. The concept could also be applied to a comet to determine if the interior structure was homogenous or if they contain a rocky interior. This implementation represents a novel approach to understanding a key science question for small bodies - their interior structure - using a new kind of instrumentation in the context of a single or multiple small (cubsat-scale) spacecraft. This implementation would present a low-risk, low-cost, high-return opportunity to understand a key question related to science, exploration and Earth-hazards.

This implementation represents an innova- tive approach to planetary seismology and under- standing the interior of a small body. Both the in- strument concept and the mission scenario using small satellites represent a completely different ap- proach to the problem. This approach avoids major challenges of deployment for mechanical systems, uses low-mass, low-power instrumentation, and employs small satellite technology to reduce risk and lower cost (compared with a large single mis- sion concept such as InSight). The benefits of the approach to be studied here is that it is applicable to any body in any part of the solar system. While details regarding the thermal environment and the power requirements will change depending upon the location, the basic sensor and instrument design is the same.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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