A Science Strategy for the Exploration of Europa (1999) / Chapter Skim
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6 Conclusions and Recommendations
6 Conclusions and Recommendations
Pages 64-68
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From page 64... ...
The two highest-priority overall science goals identified by COMPLEX for exploration of Europa reflect the emphasis on the potential for life as a major driver in Europa's exploration: 1. Determining whether liquid water has existed in substantial amounts subsequent to the period of planetary formation and differentiation, whether it exists now, and whether any liquid water that is present is globally or locally distributed.
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From page 65... ...
In a similar vein, the absence of identifiable surface environments that might support life or contain evidence of life on Europa and our complete lack of understanding of the chemical environment of the icy surface layer, the liquid water layer that may or may not underlie it, and the rocky interior of Europa suggest that a detailed exploration of the satellite will provide the best opportunity to answer these exciting questions. Thus, COMPLEX recommends that Europa be explored within the framework of a well-conceived and planned strategy designed to create a scientific base of information that is sufficient to provide a global context for interpreting data pertaining to the possible presence of life on Europa.
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From page 66... ...
COMPLEX recommends that the science objectives for follow-on experiments designed to elucidate the properties of Europa's surface materials include in situ determination of the composition of the ice and of any non-ice surface components, including the bulk material, trace elements, isotopes, and mineralogy; analyses of any organic molecules at or near the surface, and identification of endogenic or exogenic sources; determination of the composition and properties of the atmosphere and of any materials sputtered from the surface; and estimation of the absolute ages of surface materials. These science goals probably can best be met using a landed package of instruments on Europa's surface.
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From page 67... ...
However, the measurements generally center on reflectance spectroscopy of hydrated salts, saltice mixtures, and other potential components of the europan surface; measurements are needed of the physical and chemical effects of radiation from the near-Jupiter environment on surface materials, including salts, ices, and possible organic compounds, and the sputtering properties of these same materials. COMPLEX recommends that a vigorous program of laboratory measurements and supporting theoretical analyses be carried out, to encompass the nature of materials at temperatures, pressures, and irradiation conditions likely to be found on Europa.
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From page 68... ...
COMPLEX endorses the planetary protection procedures and policies articulated in previous NASA and NRC documents and recommends that appropriate planetary protection measures be determined and implemented on all relevant spacecraft missions.2 REFERENCES 1. Space Studies Board, National Research Council, An Integrated Strategy for the Planetary Sciences: 1995-2010, National Academy Press, Washington, D.C., 1994, pages 8 and 191.
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