Collecting Hypervelocity Particles Intact

Abstract

Experiments conducted to develop targets capturing micrometerorites, dust, and other small particles in outer space traveling at speed of several kilometers per second. Principal criterion for such target; must stop particles while preserving mineralogical properties for subsequent analysis. Collection concept simple: foam or other underdense medium used to remove kinetic energy gently from impinging particle. Well-designed collector decelerates and stops particle without imposing stresses beyond critical stresses that damage particle thermally or mechanically. Target technology also useful in terrestrial studies of debris for explosions.