A electrodynamic dust shield device is centered in this photo with a blue wire in the background.
Inside of the
Defeating dust may be a small concern for most people on Earth, but for astronauts and spacecraft destined for the Moon or Mars, it is a significant hazard that must be mitigated. That's why researchers at
Using transparent electrodes and electric fields, EDS technology can electrically lift and remove dust from a variety of surfaces for space applications ranging from thermal radiators, solar panels, and camera lenses to spacesuits, boots, and helmet visors. Controlling and removing the statically-charged dust will be critical to the success of Moon missions under the agency's'
'For these
Unlike dust particles on Earth, dust on the Moon's surface is sharp and abrasive - like tiny shards of glass - because it hasn't been exposed to weathering and elements like water and oxygen.
'Simply brushing lunar regolith across surfaces can make the problem worse because it's also very electrostatically charged and highly insulating,' Buhler said.
Based on the Electric Curtain concept developed by
It first made its way to low Earth orbit aboard the
Before making it to space, EDS had been predominantly tested in vacuum chambers that produced promising results of removing simulants and samples of lunar regolith, collected during
Most recently, as part of Intuitive Machines' first lunar lander mission, EDS technology was embedded in two lenses of EagleCam, a CubeSat camera system developed by students at
Later this year, another EDS technology demonstration is slated to land on the Moon as part of
'The team has put in a tremendous amount of work and dedication. EDS is considered the leading technology and the best we have for the removal of dust for space applications,' Buhler said. 'To fly as a dedicated payload on a mission to the Moon is very exciting.'
According to Buhler, EDS technology could be a first line of defense for establishing an extended human presence on the Moon with future Artemis missions.
From its applications with protecting tools, machinery, and spacesuits, the technology could potentially even help improve day-to-day tasks by being applied to small components like gaskets, seals, and hatches. This could save astronauts the hassle of traveling to the Moon with extra cleaning supplies.
'EDS technology can be used outside of a habitat to help clean surfaces like railings and floors, but it can be used inside as well,' Buhler said. 'All of those applications are being evaluated and tested.'
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