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Miniature Instrumentation for SIPR (Subsurface Ice PRobe)Ice coring has proved to be a valuable scientific tool for determining climate history on Earth. The goal of the SIPR project is to develop a simple extraterrestrial ice sampling method of comparable value to coring. The SIPR probe works by melting its way through glacial ice, pumping the melt water to the surface for analysis as it descends hundreds of meters. The specific geometry of the probe, along with size and power constraints, requires creative diagnostic instrumentation. A thin, vertically strung heated filament will provide continuous-level monitoring of water in down-hole containers. The filament has an appreciable temperature coefficient to resistance (TCR), so as water cools the wire, its resistance decreases. At a constant electrical current, the voltage across the filament varies linearly with water level.
Document ID
20060010191
Acquisition Source
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Ostmo, Karl P.
(North Dakota Univ. ND, United States)
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 2005
Publication Information
Publication: Summer Student Research Presentations
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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