Landing on a comet that's hurtling through the solar system at 150,000 miles per hour (about 240,000 kilometers) is no small feat. Bringing back samples from such an object is even more challenging. To make this process easier, NASA is developing a revolutionary tool called the "space javelin." This device is designed to drill several meters into a comet’s surface, extract ice and rock samples, and return them to Earth. The goal is to help scientists uncover the mysteries of planetary formation and the origins of life on our planet.
NASA's approach involves using a spacecraft equipped with six rocket-powered penetrators. These devices will be launched as the spacecraft flies by the comet, attached to tethers and reaching speeds up to 2,240 miles per hour (around 3,605 kilometers per hour). Once they penetrate the comet's surface, they collect samples and send them back to Earth for analysis.
In a recent report, Robert Wingley from the University of Washington said, “This technology allows us to collect a few kilograms of subsurface material from Mars for the first time. It gives us a better understanding of the solar system and offers flexibility in sampling missions without significantly increasing costs.â€
The traditional method of collecting samples involves sending robotic landers to gently touch down on celestial bodies, gather materials, and return them to Earth. However, NASA’s Rosetta mission, which recently approached the Comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko, used a similar technique. Landing on a comet is one of the most dangerous parts of the mission, and according to Wengerly, the team doesn’t plan to slow down the spacecraft. Instead, they rely on the kinetic energy of the flyby to complete the task.
To test the space javelin, scientists conducted experiments using a simulated comet made of sand, salt, and rocks. During testing, the penetrator was fired at 70 miles per hour (about 112 kilometers per hour), exerting a force of up to 1,000 pounds (around 453 kilograms). The tests revealed how the device could function on real comets, which are soft and mostly composed of dust and ice.
Donald Wegener, the chief engineer, explained that the test rig had to be anchored to the ground because the winch would otherwise bounce during each launch. He added, “We don’t know exactly what the comet surface will be like. Some areas may be icy, others rocky, so we need a device that can go deep and adapt to different conditions.â€
Comets are remnants from the early solar system—icy, dusty balls left over from its formation. By studying them, scientists hope to gain insights into how planets formed and how life might have originated on Earth. The space javelin represents a bold step forward in our quest to explore the cosmos and unlock its secrets.
Valve Diaphragm
Diaphragm is also called membrane, which is a very important sealing component of the valve. NINGBO DOTEC manufactures various diaphragms for pulse valves and solenoid valves. We use all high quality raw materials to ensure long service life.
Valve Diaphragm Types:
1. GOYEN Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
2. ASCO Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
3. SBFEC Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
4. TURBO Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
5. MECAIR Type Pulse Valve Dipahragm
6. JOIL Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
7. Norgren Buschjost Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
8. AUTEL Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
9. TAEHA Type Pulse Valve Diaphragm
10. Other Pulse Valve Diaphragm
11. Water Solenoid Valve Diaphragm
Pulse Valve Diaphragm, Solenoid Valve Diaphragm, Pulse Valve Membrane, Pulse Jet Valve Diaphragm
NINGBO DOTEC AUTOMATION CO., LTD , https://www.ningbodotec.com