Title:
Analogue Field Testing, Training and Operational readiness for the 2028 ExoMars Rover Mission: Co-analysis of PanCam and Enfys data to determine the origin of clays on Mars
Agreement Number:
23FAWESB78
Agreement Value:
$299,541.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 21, 2024 - Mar 31, 2027
Description:
The goal of this project is to better constrain the formation of clay minerals on Mars through Mars analogue missions deployed at three clay-bearing terrestrial field sites with two comparable EMRF (ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover mission) instruments. This project aims to provide insights into further development and validation of these instruments and train the next generation of planetary explorers. The objectives of this work are to provide additional inputs into the design and validation of the instrument “Enfys” – the newly funded spectrometer replacing the former Russian ISEM instrument, to develop mission procedures and protocols tailored for identifying and characterizing clays with Enfys with PanCam (Panoramic Camera), and to determine if the mineral/spectral characteristics of clays collected from different geologic settings are sufficiently distinct to differentiate between different clay-formation scenarios. The analogue missions will be executed at three field sites: one meteorite impact, a volcanic site and one surface weathering site.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research
and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
London, Ontario, CA N6A 5B7
Reference Number:
003-2023-2024-Q4-00079
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Additional Information:
The amount allocated covers more than one fiscal year
Recipient's Legal Name:
University of Western Ontario
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.