Speaker
Description
Both in manned and robotic exploration, crew protection and the reduction of material degradation are key aspects of lunar and Martian surface exploration. One of the main risks arises from exposure to and interaction with lunar regolith and dust. In addition to preventing the accumulation of harsh, sharp-edged particles, the CHARON project’s "cleaning hardware recovery operations" will focus on the reliable removal of lunar surface contamination, specifically for use in material and personnel airlocks. Larger dust particles (d > 5 µm) pose a threat to ocular safety, while smaller particles (d < 5 µm) represent a health risk to astronauts when inhaled. On the hardware side, abrasive dust degrades surface properties and can cause leaks in seals (a topic of the DEAR presentation). Additionally, a cleaning method for highly sensitive surfaces (such as coatings and optical surfaces) and complex geometries (like textile structures and sealing surfaces) is essential.
CO2 snow jet cleaning is a highly efficient, contactless, non-abrasive, and residual-free spraying method for removing dust contamination. The contamination is pushed off the surface and scrubbed from the air using filtration systems. By monitoring the contamination concentration within the air stream with PAC monitors, a real-time measure of the cleaning effectiveness is provided which ensures the final level of cleanliness. This presentation will discuss the CO2 cleaning method, a dedicated machine, and initial test results and applications.
