Instrument Information
IDENTIFIER urn:nasa:pds:context:instrument:go.pls::1.2
NAME Plasma Science Experiment for GO
TYPE Spectrometer
DESCRIPTION The plasma instrumentation (PLS) developed for the Galileo Mission is designed to investigate the intricate dynamics of the Jovian magnetosphere. It features a sophisticated arrangement of four spherical-plate electrostatic analyzers and three miniature magnetic mass spectrometers, enabling the detailed analysis of both positive ions and electrons across an energy-per-unit charge (E/Q) range of 0.9 V to 52 kV. The instrumentation employs a fan-shaped field of view (160 degrees) combined with the spacecraft's rotation to sample a significant portion (47 pi-steradians) of charged particle velocity vectors, allowing for the capture of three-dimensional velocity distributions of ions and electrons. The mass spectrometers facilitate the identification of various positive ion species, including H+, O+, Na+, and S+, essential for understanding the plasma composition within the Jovian magnetosphere. The instrument's high temporal resolution of 0.5 s for E/Q spectra and 20 s for three-dimensional distributions enhances its capability to track rapid changes in plasma dynamics associated with satellite interactions, magnetotail surveys, and the influences of Io's volcanic activity. By addressing previously underexplored plasma phenomena, including field-aligned currents and ion flows, the Galileo PLS aims to provide critical advancements in the understanding of Jovian magnetospheric processes and their interactions with the surrounding environment, thereby filling the observational gaps left by earlier missions.
MODEL IDENTIFIER
NAIF INSTRUMENT IDENTIFIER
SERIAL NUMBER not applicable
REFERENCES Frank, L. A., K. L. Ackerson, J. A. Lee, M. R. English, and G. L. Pickett, The Plasma Instrumentation for the Galileo Mission, Sp. Sci. Rev., 60, 283-307, 1992.