Description
LUISE-2 investigates lunar regolith handling and analysis processes such as sampling, preparation (transport, measuring, filling), thermal gas evolution, and gas analysis.
Within the area of sample handling, the flow characteristics of lunar regolith simulants have been investigated to find design criteria for feeding systems such as hoppers. For this purpose experiments were conducted in reduced gravity and vacuum on the „2nd Joint Partial-g Parabolic Flight Campaign“, a joint campaign of ESA/CNES/DLR.
For the relevant gas extraction processes the thermal properties of lunar regolith simulant were determined experimentally. New concepts for heaters and instruments that can be used in a lunar application, more specifically on a mobile lunar surface craft, are being tested.
The outcome of project LUISE-2 contributes to a better understanding of sampling and thermal extraction processes on Moon and provides useful data for the conception of a scientific in-situ sampling and analysis instrument. Furthermore the results are relevant for broader ISRU applications (In-Situ Resource Utilization) on Moon.