Concepts for collection of aerosols in Titan's atmosphere
- PMID: 11539790
- DOI: 10.1029/jb092ib04p0e717
Concepts for collection of aerosols in Titan's atmosphere
Abstract
In this paper we consider design of instruments for collection of aerosols during entry in Titan's atmosphere. Major constraints on designs are small sample collection time, low aerosol column density, and the need to collect 1-10 micrograms of aerosol for gas chromatographic analysis. Thus it is important to maximize aerosol collection through collector design, which includes consideration of various types of collectors and maximizing the collection efficiency of a given type of collector. Sampling systems discussed include inertial impactors, filters, electrostatic devices, and multistage instruments. Aerosol sampling is reviewed in the context of high-altitude (200-70 km) and low-altitude (60-30 km) regions of Titan's atmosphere.