It's no small feat to land on a comet that's hurtling through the solar system at 150,000 miles per hour (about 240,000 kilometers). The challenge becomes even greater when you consider the need to collect samples and bring them back to Earth. To make this mission more feasible, NASA is developing a revolutionary tool called the "space javelin." This device is designed to drill several meters into a comet's surface, extracting ice and rock samples that could help scientists unravel the mysteries of how planets form and how life on Earth began.
NASA’s approach involves a spacecraft equipped with six rocket-powered penetrators. These devices are launched as the spacecraft flies by the comet, attached to tethers and capable of reaching speeds up to 2,240 miles per hour (3,605 kilometers per hour). Once they penetrate the comet's surface, they collect samples and return them to Earth for analysis. A recent test involved launching one of these penetrators into a simulated comet made of sand, salt, and rocks to mimic the conditions of an actual comet.
According to Robert Wingley from the University of Washington, this technology will allow scientists to gather a few kilograms of subsurface material from Mars for the first time, significantly expanding our understanding of the solar system. He added that the method offers flexibility and improved sampling capabilities at a relatively low additional cost.
The traditional approach to sample retrieval involves sending robotic landers to celestial bodies, collecting materials, and returning them to Earth. However, the Rosetta mission, set to land on the comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko in August, will take a different path. Instead of landing softly, the spacecraft will use its kinetic energy to touch down, avoiding the need to brake and save fuel.
Donald Wegener, the chief engineer, explained that the comet's surface is likely soft, composed mainly of dust, ice, and possibly boulders. Since the composition can vary across different regions, the design of the space javelin must be robust enough to reach deep underground.
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 the origins of planets and the building blocks of life on Earth. With innovations like the space javelin, the future of space exploration looks more promising than ever.
NINGBO DOTEC manufactures various water solenoid valves in China for many years.
Options:
1. Port Size: 1/8'' to 3'', etc
2. Connection: Threaded, Flanged, Push-In, etc
3. Body Material: Brass, Stainless Steel, Aluminum Alloy, PA, PP, POM, etc
4. Seal Material: NBR, EPDM, FKM, PTFE, PEEK, Silicone, etc
5. Function: 2 way, 3 way or Multi ways; normally closed or normally open, etc
6. Voltage: 12VDC, 24VDC, 24VAC, 110VAC, 220VAC, other voltage can be customzied
Water Solenoid Valve 24V, Water Solenoid Valve 110V, Water Solenoid Valve 220V, Brass Water Solenoid Valve, Stainless Steel Water Solenoid Valve
NINGBO DOTEC AUTOMATION CO., LTD , https://www.ningbodotec.com